This Apple Chai Citrus Cider brings together crisp apple, warming chai spices, and a touch of citrus for a simple, feel-good drink. An easy way to make everyday moments feel a little more special.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups organic apple juice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick, broken
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
  • 5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 1 whole star anise pod
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 6 black peppercorns
  • 2–3 wide strips orange peel (no white pith)
  • 4 bags Rooibos Chai Tea
  • ¼ cup brown sugar 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

  • Combine the apple juice and water in a large saucepan and warm gently over low heat until steaming but not boiling.

  • Bundle the cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, star anise, cloves, and peppercorns into a cheesecloth sachet and add it to the pot along with the orange peel. Let everything slowly infuse for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.

  • Turn off the heat and add the tea bags directly to the pot. Let them steep for 5–6 minutes, then remove the tea, spice sachet, and orange peel.

  • Stir in the brown sugar while the liquid is still hot, then add vanilla. Finish with a small splash of fresh citrus juice to lift and balance the spices.

  • Keep warm on the stove over low heat or transfer to a slow cooker on LOW for up to 2 hours. Serve in mugs with an orange peel twist and star anise.