Step aside apple cider, pear cider is the new warm and cozy drink for the rest of fall and winter. In this recipe, you combine water and pears that simmer with a generous amount of fresh ginger, spices, and vanilla bean. The result is a fragrant, spiced, and sweet warm drink that is just the thing for cold days. We especially like to make this soothing drink when fighting off sore throats and colds. It would also make for a wonderful drink pre-dinner at a holiday gathering. Whenever you make it, be prepared for the best smells of fall and winter to flood your kitchen.
Spiced Pear Cider
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
Ingredients
- 6 large ripe pears (any variety), halved
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 star anise
- 10 whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2-3 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into 2-3 pieces
- 1 vanilla bean, split open in half lengthwise
- Water
Instructions
- Place pears, cinnamon sticks, star anise, ginger, vanilla bean, and nutmeg in a large pot. Add water, enough so that water comes up to about 2 to 2½ inches above the pears. Bring to a simmer. Adjust temperature to maintain a low simmer and cook, uncovered, for about an hour until pears are very soft. Stir occasionally.
- Gently break up pears and mash slightly with the back of a wooden spoon. Place a lid on the pot and continue to simmer for another 1-2 hours, until cider is very flavorful. Remove from heat and strain once cool enough to pour. Serve warm or cold.
Notes
Adapted from https://aredspatula.com/cozy-pear-cider-recipe/
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