- Combine apple cider vinegar and lemon juice in a glass.
- Add ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Optionally, stir in honey or a zero-calorie sweetener to taste.
- Pour warm or cold water into the glass and mix well.
- Serve immediately, and consider using a straw to protect tooth enamel from acidity.
- Calories:29 kcal25%
- Energy:121 kJ22%
- Protein:0.1 g28%
- Carbohydrates:7 mg40%
- Sugar:6 mg8%
- Salt:1 g25%
- Fat:0.1 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Apple Cider Vinegar Drink Recipe – Cinnamon & Cayenne Wellness Shot
Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this little wellness shot with you. It’s become a non-negotiable part of my morning routine, and honestly, it’s a game-changer. It’s a zingy, spicy, and surprisingly delicious way to kickstart your day. I first stumbled upon this combination while trying to find a natural way to boost my energy, and I’ve been hooked ever since! Let’s dive in, shall we?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another health fad. This apple cider vinegar drink is quick, easy, and packed with potential benefits. It’s a fantastic way to support digestion, boost your immune system, and even help manage blood sugar levels. Plus, the cinnamon and cayenne add a lovely warmth that’s perfect for those chilly mornings. Honestly, it just feels good to drink!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this wellness shot:
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (approx. 15ml)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (approx. 15ml)
- ½ – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (approx. 2.5-5ml) – adjust to your taste!
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey (approx. 5ml) – or your preferred sweetener
- 1 glass of water (approx. 240ml)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! Choosing the right ones can really elevate this drink.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Types & Benefits
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) isn’t just for pickling anymore! Look for raw, unfiltered ACV with “the mother” – that cloudy sediment at the bottom. That’s where most of the beneficial enzymes and probiotics live. It’s believed to aid digestion, improve skin health, and even help with weight management.
Lemon Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for that bright, zesty flavor. But if you’re short on time, a good quality bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. Just make sure it doesn’t have any added sugar.
Cinnamon: Ceylon vs. Cassia – What’s the Difference?
You’ll usually find Cassia cinnamon in most supermarkets – it’s what we’re all used to. Ceylon cinnamon is a bit more delicate and subtly sweet. Both are great, but Ceylon is considered “true cinnamon” and has lower levels of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in large doses.
Cayenne Pepper: Heat Levels & Health Properties
Cayenne pepper brings the heat! It’s a fantastic metabolism booster and has anti-inflammatory properties. Start with just a pinch, and add more if you like a serious kick.
Honey: Raw vs. Processed – Choosing the Best Option
Raw honey is packed with antioxidants and enzymes. It’s a little more expensive, but I find it worth it for the extra health benefits. If you’re using processed honey, just make sure it’s pure honey and doesn’t have any added corn syrup.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Okay, let’s make this! It seriously takes less than 5 minutes.
- First, pour the apple cider vinegar and lemon juice into a glass.
- Next, add your cinnamon and that little pinch of cayenne pepper. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon – it balances the vinegar beautifully!
- If you’re using honey (or another sweetener), stir it in now.
- Finally, pour in your water and give it a good mix.
- Serve immediately! I like to use a straw to protect my tooth enamel from the acidity.
Expert Tips
Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Adjusting Sweetness & Spice: This is your drink! Feel free to adjust the honey and cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Using Filtered Water: Filtered water just tastes cleaner, and it’s a good habit to get into.
- The Importance of Dilution: Always dilute apple cider vinegar with water. Drinking it straight can damage your esophagus and tooth enamel.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Vegan Adaptation: Swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. My friend, Priya, swears by maple syrup in this drink!
- Sugar-Free/Keto Adaptation: Use a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
- Spice Level Adjustment:
- Mild: Just a tiny pinch of cayenne.
- Medium: ¼ teaspoon of cayenne.
- Hot: ½ teaspoon or more of cayenne – for the brave!
- Morning Wellness Routine Adaptation: I often add a small piece of ginger to mine for an extra immune boost.
Serving Suggestions
This is best enjoyed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. It really wakes you up! You can also sip on it throughout the day as a refreshing and healthy beverage.
Storage Instructions
This drink is best consumed immediately. However, you can mix the ACV, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in a small jar and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add the water and honey when you’re ready to drink it.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions:
What are the benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar?
ACV is believed to aid digestion, improve skin health, help manage blood sugar levels, and boost your immune system.
Can I drink this every day? Are there any side effects?
Yes, most people can drink this daily. However, it’s important to dilute it properly and listen to your body. Some people may experience digestive upset if they drink too much.
Can I prepare this drink in advance?
You can pre-mix the ACV, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cayenne, but add the water and honey right before drinking.
What type of water is best to use in this recipe?
Filtered water is ideal, but tap water is fine if it tastes good to you.
Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon and cayenne pepper?
Absolutely! Try turmeric, ginger, or even a dash of nutmeg.
Is honey necessary for this recipe? What can I substitute?
No, honey isn’t essential. You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, stevia, or erythritol as alternatives. Or, you can skip the sweetener altogether!
Neha Deshmukh
Neha holds a B.A. in History with a focus on Indian and world history, including ancient, medieval, and modern periods. At RecipesOfIndia.org — the world’s largest database of Indian recipes — she combines her love for food and history by exploring how India’s past has shaped its culinary traditions.