Salted Caramel Apple Cider

Aside from pumpkin, apples are synonymous with this time of year.  Just think about it, the fair rolls around and there are booths filled with candy and caramel apples.  Trips to the apple orchard are planned and bushel upon bushel of apples are picked and a plethora of baked goods are made.

What is it about the simple apple that makes me weak in the knees?  The perfect apple, how would you describe it?  Mine would be firm, juicy, crispy, sweet and slightly tart.  My favorite apples are the Honeycrisp variety.  Have you tried them?  If not, you must.  And now.

Anyway, I love apples.  Aside from sweet and savory recipes, I love apple flavored beverages. Apple cider to be specific.  Me and apple cider go way back.  I mean, like over 25 years ago.  I remember the first time I tasted it.  I was first drawn in by the intoxicating smell; apples and cinnamon, to this day still one of my favorite smells.  Then I took my first sip and that was it.  I was hooked.

When the first hint of cool weather arrives and the jugs of apple cider begin to fill the shelves I get so excited.  I can’t resist buying a jug and quickly getting home to make a mug of the perfect fall drink.  I fill my mug, cozy up on the couch and enjoy my favorite drink.

If you asked me a few years ago, I would tell you that nothing could make my mug of apple cider any better.  But, over the past few years I’ve discovered and become infatuated with salted caramel.  Oh, I adore the stuff.  It feeds my whole sweet salty obsession.  I also love caramel apples.  So, what would happen if I did something crazy like combine these things; cider, caramel, salt?

Only the most awesome drink you’ve ever put in your mouth.  Salted caramel apple cider.  This drink, honestly is the epitome of what fall is all about.  Sticky, sweet caramel, combined with sea salt and cinnamon apple cider.  Each sip is the perfect balance of apple, caramel and sea salt.  One sip of this concoction and all will be right with the world.  Folks, meet your new favorite cold weather drink.

Salted Caramel Apple Cider

Ingredients:


3 Cups apple cider
2 Tbsp red hots
1 Cinnamon stick
3 Tbsp caramel sauce, plus more for topping
1/4 Tsp salt, plus more for topping
Whipped cream, for topping

Directions:


Place cider, red hots and cinnamon stick in a saucepan and place over medium-low heat.  Bring mixture to a simmer and allow to for about 5 minutes, until red hots are dissolved.  Add caramel sauce and salt and allow to simmer another 2 minutes, stirring to incorporate the caramel.

Pour hot cider in two glasses.  Top with whipped cream, caramel and another sprinkle of salt.  Serve and enjoy.

Recipe source: A Lynsey Original