They have a wonderful apple orchard in the middle of the city. Every time we visit in the Fall, we have fun doing all the fun apple activities. It’s become a family tradition! My Dad is one of the most generous men I know, donating apples to the food bank every year. He shines each one to give it that extra touch! I know your family will love this recipe just as much as mine does.
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Benefits of Apples & Cider
There’s nothing better than biting into a sweet, juicy apple! Apple orchards are a great place to purchase apples while having a fun experience. Plus, the owners are usually transparent about their growing processes. Win-win! We love stocking up on apples during the Fall.
We all know the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the Doctor away!”. That may not be entirely true, but apples do have nutritional benefits. Here are just a few of them.
May Help You Lose Weight
Apples have a high fiber content, which is excellent for those who want to curb their appetite. This fiber turns into a thick substance in your stomach that takes longer to digest. (1) This increased digestion time means hunger signals are put on hold.
Fiber can also be great for your gut health. Many health problems stem from an imbalance of unhealthy gut bacteria, and fiber can help even the score! (2)
Cancer-Fighting Potential
Research is limited but looks promising; apples may be a potent cancer fighter! Studies show consuming at least one apple a day may be enough to reduce your risk for lung and colon cancer. (3) Professionals think the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds found in apples cause this effect.
Boosts Cognitive Ability
Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which, in turn, can cause a myriad of issues, including accelerated cognitive decline. (4) Apple juice can fight against oxidative stress, keeping your brain at peak performance!
This mulled cider may be a good beverage before your morning crossword! One study showed that consuming apple juice, even at an advanced age, may help memory revert to its prime. (5) It’s never too late to start healthy habits.
Healthy Spiced Cider Ingredients
This mulled cider requires just three ingredients. Store-bought ciders with the same flavor profile contain fillers and a lot of added sugar. You don’t need toxins to make a delicious drink! Here’s what you need to create a delightful Fall beverage.
Apple Cider: There are many kinds of apple cider on the shelves, but to avoid unnecessary ingredients, we recommend using 100% apple cider, fresh-pressed if possible. You should be able to find this ingredient in your local store, in an orchard, or even at a farmer’s market. If not, there are a few great options online.
Dr Z and my Dad enjoy making fresh-pressed cider every year. It’s one of their favorite things to do together and they definitely get their workout in! We like to freeze that cider and distribute it between family members. I’ll break it out for special events like Thanksgiving!
Organic Mulling Spices: Mulling spices take ordinary cider to a whole new level. This blend consists of cinnamon, orange peel, allspice, cloves, and ginger. Stay away from the instant spice mixes that contain excess sodium and preservatives. The real deal tastes better!
I love using the Frontier Co-op brand because it doesn’t contain any additives.
Reusable Tea Bags: Loose leaf tea lovers, rejoice! These reusable tea bags are a fantastic way to implement low-waste practices in your home. We use them in our cider and holiday punch as they let flavors infuse while keeping drinks free of debris.
Organic Cinnamon Sticks: Cinnamon sticks are a fantastic garnish, and they add that extra hint of heat. I love adding different cinnamon sticks to a small bowl and letting guests use them to stir their drinks!
Fun fact: Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant and can be used as a natural food preservative!
Mama Z Pro Tip: Use cinnamon sticks as a straw!
Make Healthy Mulled Cider
This cider is easy to prepare. It needs a bit of time to simmer, which gives you more time to connect with loved ones!
You can freeze this drink ahead of time for easy party prep. Just follow the recipe, and let it cool. Pour into reusable containers that fit perfectly in your allotted freezer space. On the day of the event, remove the container from the freezer and let thaw. Warm over low heat. The flavors stay fresh!
- 1 gallon of organic cider (fresh pressed is the best)
- ½ cup Frontier Co-Op organic mulling spices or Organic Cider Mate Mulling Spices
- 4 3-inch organic cinnamon sticks
- Large pot
- AirPot, for serving
- Reusable tea bag
- Place the cinnamon sticks and mulling spice in the reusable tea bag. Secure tightly.
- Pour the apple cider into a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the tea bag and let simmer for 1 hour. Serve warm. Enjoy!
Step One: Prepare the Tea Bag
Place the cinnamon sticks and mulling spice in the reusable tea bag. Secure tightly.
Step Two: Add Ingredients to Pan and Simmer
Pour the apple cider into a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the tea bag and let simmer for 1 hour. Serve warm. Enjoy!
If you’re following along with The Essential Oils Diet, you know that your beverages are one of the first areas we recommend changing. Many people consume empty calories, sugar, and gluten without even realizing it!
Thankfully, there are ways to enjoy delicious drinks while still achieving your health goals. Check out some of our favorite beverages here. You’ll find a wide variety of chilled and warm recipes. These drinks are gluten, sugar, and dairy-free.
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