As soon as the crisp air of fall rolls in, I start craving something warm and comforting in a mug—and this Warm Pumpkin Apple Cider hits the spot every single time. It’s a cozy blend of apple cider and creamy pumpkin, gently spiced and sweetened with maple syrup, perfect for sipping on chilly days. It’s quick to make, smells incredible while it simmers, and tastes like autumn in a cup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines two of my favorite fall flavors—apple and pumpkin—into one soothing drink. It only takes about 20 minutes to make from start to finish, and I usually have all the ingredients in my pantry. It’s naturally dairy-free, customizable, and great for both relaxing evenings and festive gatherings. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a warm, spiced aroma that makes everything feel even more seasonal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
apple cider – 4 cups
pumpkin puree – 1/2 cup
maple syrup – 2 tablespoons
pumpkin spice mix – 1 teaspoon
cinnamon sticks – 2
vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
whipped cream (optional, for topping)
apple slices or additional spices for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients I start by adding apple cider, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon sticks to a large saucepan. I stir everything together gently to blend the ingredients.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture Then I place the saucepan over medium heat. I let the mixture warm slowly, stirring occasionally so the pumpkin dissolves fully and the spices meld into the cider. This usually takes around 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract Once it’s warmed through and fragrant, I take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to finish.
Step 4: Strain (Optional) If I want a smoother texture, I pour the cider through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon sticks and any extra pulp.
Step 5: Serve Warm I serve the cider in mugs, topped with whipped cream if I’m feeling indulgent, and sometimes I add a little sprinkle of spice or a fresh apple slice for a special touch.
Skip the sweetener: If my apple cider is already sweet, I leave out the maple syrup entirely.
Use fresh apple juice: For a more natural and lighter version, I sometimes substitute with fresh-pressed apple juice.
Try homemade pumpkin spice: If I’m out of the mix, I make my own using equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Dairy-free topping: Coconut whipped cream makes a great alternative to regular whipped cream for a fully dairy-free treat.
storage/reheating
When I have leftovers, I let the cider cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I want to reheat it, I warm it gently on the stove or microwave a single cup for about 1–2 minutes. For a longer storage option, I pour the cider into ice cube trays and freeze it—perfect for tossing into fall smoothies or reheating into a quick cozy drink.
FAQs
What kind of apple cider should I use?
I usually go for unfiltered, spiced apple cider because it has a rich, full flavor, but any variety works well in this recipe.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
I don’t recommend it. Pumpkin pie filling already has added sugar and spices, which can throw off the balance of the drink. I stick with pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. I often prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to enjoy it, I simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How do I make it smoother?
If I want a silkier finish, I strain the mixture before serving or even blend it briefly using an immersion blender.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is completely safe and fun for kids to enjoy, especially with whipped cream and apple slices on top.
Conclusion
This Warm Pumpkin Apple Cider is everything I love about fall wrapped into one simple drink. It’s flavorful, cozy, and incredibly easy to make—whether I’m enjoying it on my own or sharing it with friends and family. The blend of spiced cider and creamy pumpkin makes it a seasonal favorite I come back to every year. I hope you’ll love it just as much!
