Growing up, hot apple cider was always just the stuff that came in paper packets from the grocery store. My mom would pour hot water over the powder, give it a stir, and that was that. It wasn’t until I went to my friend Sarah’s house during high school that I learned what real cider could taste like. Her mom made this spiced cider with Tang, and honestly, it changed my whole perspective. The combination might sound strange at first – who adds orange drink mix to apple cider? But trust me, this simple addition makes regular cider into something that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Granulated sugar can be replaced with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract for a lower-calorie option. Use about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of these alternatives, as they are much sweeter than sugar. Adjust to taste.
Orange drink mix (Tang®) can be substituted with unsweetened orange juice powder or freeze-dried orange powder for a more natural flavor profile. Use slightly less than the recipe calls for and adjust sweetness separately.
Instant tea powder can be replaced with finely ground loose leaf tea or matcha powder for a more authentic tea flavor. Use about half the amount of loose leaf tea or matcha compared to instant tea powder. Steep the mixture longer if using loose leaf tea to ensure proper flavor extraction.
| Preparation Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-5 minutes |
| Total Time | 5-15 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1300
- Protein: 0-5 g
- Fat: 0-5 g
- Carbohydrates: 300-310 g
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves (freshly ground for strong flavor)
- 1/2 cup instant tea powder (finely ground for best dissolution)
- 1 cup orange drink mix (I use Tang brand)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Step 1: Prepare the Beverage Mix
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients: sugar, orange-flavored drink mix, tea powder, cinnamon, and cloves.
Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Step 2: Store the Mixture
Once the mixture is combined, transfer it to a sealed container to maintain its freshness.
Store the container in a cool, dry place until you are ready to use it.
Step 3: Serve the Beverage
When you’re ready to enjoy a warm, flavorful drink, scoop out 2 to 3 tablespoons of the prepared mixture and add it to a cup of hot water.
Stir well until the mixture is completely dissolved.
Serve immediately and savor the comforting flavors of this delightful beverage.
