Apple Cider Slushie Recipe – Cinnamon, Ginger & Nutmeg Blend

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Apple Cider Slushie Recipe – Cinnamon, Ginger & Nutmeg Blend

Hey everyone! As the weather starts to cool down, I find myself craving all things cozy and comforting. And honestly, what’s more comforting than a deliciously spiced apple cider? But we’re not just drinking it, we’re turning it into a frosty, fabulous slushie! This Apple Cider Slushie is seriously the perfect treat – it’s quick, easy, and bursting with warm autumn flavors. I first made this for a little get-together with friends last fall, and it was a huge hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average slushie. Forget those artificial flavors – we’re going all-natural with real apple cider and a beautiful blend of spices. It’s wonderfully refreshing, subtly sweet, and has this incredible warmth from the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Plus, it’s super easy to make, needing just a blender and a few simple ingredients. It’s the perfect non-alcoholic drink for any fall or winter gathering, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful slushie:

• 32 oz (approximately 950ml) apple cider
• 1 cup ice
• 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon ginger powder
• 0.125 teaspoon ground cloves
• Rosemary sprigs, for garnish (as needed)
• Fresh apple slices, for garnish (as needed)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about what makes this recipe sing.

• Apple Cider: This is the star! Using a good quality apple cider really makes a difference. I prefer a cider that’s a little cloudy, as it usually has more apple flavor.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg & Cloves: These warm spices are the heart of this drink. Don’t skimp – they’re what give it that cozy, autumnal vibe. I always use fresh spices when I can, but ground works perfectly fine too.
• Ginger Powder: A little bit of ginger adds a lovely warmth and subtle zing.
• Rosemary: Sounds a little unusual, right? But trust me, a sprig of rosemary adds a beautiful aromatic touch that complements the apple and spices perfectly. It’s a little something extra that elevates the whole drink!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get slushie-making! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, pour most of your apple cider (about 30oz or 885ml) into ice cube trays and pop them in the freezer for 4-5 hours, or until completely solid. This is key for that perfect slushie consistency! Reserve the remaining 1-2oz (around 60ml) of cider – we’ll need it later.
2. Once your cider cubes are frozen, it’s blending time! Add the frozen cider cubes, reserved liquid cider, ice, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to your blender.
3. Blend everything on high until it’s beautifully smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash of ice-cold water until you reach your desired slushie consistency.
4. Pour into glasses, garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a few fresh apple slices, and serve immediately. Seriously, don’t wait – it’s best enjoyed right away!

Expert Tips

• For a smoother slushie: Make sure your cider cubes are fully frozen.
• Adjust the ice: If you like a thicker slushie, add more ice. For a thinner one, use less.
• Lemon Juice is Key: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It brightens up all the flavors.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. For a bolder spice kick, add a pinch of allspice or cardamom!
• Festival Adaptations: This is amazing for Thanksgiving or Christmas. For Thanksgiving, maybe add a tiny dash of pumpkin pie spice. For Christmas, a sprinkle of edible glitter makes it extra festive!
• Alcoholic Variation: Feeling a little fancy? Add a splash (about 1-2 oz per serving) of bourbon or apple brandy to each glass. My friend Sarah loves adding a little Calvados – it’s divine!

Serving Suggestions

This slushie is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Serve with a cinnamon sugar rim on the glasses.
• Pair it with apple pie or gingerbread cookies.
• Make it a part of a fall-themed brunch spread.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this slushie is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely have to make it ahead of time, you can freeze any leftovers. However, the texture will change, and you’ll need to re-blend it with a little extra liquid before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

• Can I use store-bought apple cider concentrate? You can, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. I highly recommend using real apple cider for the best results.
• What’s the best type of apple cider to use for this slushie? A cloudy, unfiltered apple cider will give you the most authentic flavor.
• Can this slushie be made ahead of time? It’s best served immediately, but leftovers can be refrozen and re-blended.
• How can I adjust the sweetness of the slushie? If you prefer a sweeter slushie, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey while blending.
• What are some other garnish options besides rosemary and apple slices? Cinnamon sticks, star anise, or even a dusting of cinnamon powder look beautiful!

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Apple Cider Slushie! I hope it brings a little bit of autumn magic to your day. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!