Elderberry Apple Cider: An Autumn Hug in a Mug 🍎🍂

August 25, 2025

September marks the start of Autumn in my mind! Today is my birthday and my yearly routine has always been to welcome in the autumn decor, introduce Fall mums to the front porch, and begin discussing our apple picking date around the dinner table. Autumn - what a delight! The children return to their rhythms, the air turns a little crisper, and in our home, the kitchen fills with the scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples. I love welcoming the fall season with something that feels like a warm hug in a mug so allow me to share with you one of our favorites!

Today I’m sharing a recipe that combines two of my favorites—fresh apple cider and our small-batch, fresh-pressed elderberry syrup. The result? A cozy, spiced cider that not only tastes like fall but also nourishes your body with antioxidants, vitamin C, and immune-supporting goodness. Perfect for sipping around the dinner table, after a chilly football game, or while lighting a candle during homeschool mornings.

🍎 Ingredients & Benefits

Apple Cider (4 cups) – Rich in polyphenols and naturally sweet, apples bring antioxidants that support heart health.
Cinnamon Sticks (2) – Warming spice that supports healthy blood sugar and digestion.
Whole Cloves (4) – Tiny but mighty; cloves are antimicrobial and bring depth of flavor.
Allspice Berries (½ tsp or ¼ tsp ground) – Adds that cozy “pumpkin pie” note.
Fresh Grated Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Anti-inflammatory and comforting.
Fresh Ginger Root (3–4 slices) – Aids circulation, digestion, and immune support.
Lemon Juice (1–2 Tbsp) – Brightens flavor while adding a boost of vitamin C.
Above & Beyond Elderberry Syrup (¼–⅓ cup) – Added at the end to preserve its fresh-pressed potency; supports immune health with anthocyanins and quercetin.
Optional: orange slices, fresh rosemary sprig or star anise for an extra festive fall flavor.

🍂 Recipe: Elderberry Apple Cider

Serves 4–5 mugs

Method:

In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, ginger, and lemon juice.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover and let the spices infuse for about 20 minutes. (Do not let it boil hard—you’ll lose the delicate flavors.)
Strain out the spices and return the cider to the pan.
Allow it to cool slightly to a safe sipping temperature, then stir in the elderberry syrup. This preserves the beneficial compounds that can be lost if boiled.
Pour into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

✨ Serving Notes

For Kids: Top with a little whipped cream or coconut cream for a special treat.
This is the perfect additional to a Bible study gathering - warm, cozy and medicinal benefits!
Make Ahead: Store leftovers in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently—avoid boiling after the elderberry has been added — We love this Breville Frother for reheating warm drinks all season long - we have been through many frothers and this one has stood the test of time!
Family Table Idea: Pass an apple around the table and let each person share one thing they’re thankful for while holding it. A simple way to turn this recipe into a family rhythm.

From my home to yours, I hope this recipe brings warmth, peace, and togetherness into your September days. And if your family needs a jar of our fresh-pressed elderberry syrup to keep cozy season well stocked, you can always find it inside our Above & Beyond membership.