Woodchuck Warmer Apple Cider Cocktail

Name: Woodchuck Warmer Apple Cider Cocktail
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 - 8 serving(s)
Ingredients: 6 large or 8 medium apples, chopped, plus slices for garnish; 1 lemon, halved; 3 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish; 1 tsp. whole cloves; 2 star anise, plus more for garnish; 1 (2 1/2-inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced; 1/4 to 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1 1/2 c. apple brandy (such as Laird’s) or bourbon

This hot cocktail gets its name from an old nickname for Vermonters—where they really take their apples seriously.

By Christopher MichelPublished: Aug 3, 2022

1 Rating

Jump to recipe

three woodchuck warmer apple cider cocktails in glass mugs with apple star anise and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Becky Luigart-Stayner

Yields:

6 - 8 serving(s)

Prep Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

50 mins

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Ingredients

6 large or 8 medium apples, chopped, plus slices for garnish
1 lemon, halved
3 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish
1 tsp. whole cloves
2 star anise, plus more for garnish
1 (2 1/2-inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced
1/4 to 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 1/2 cups apple brandy (such as Laird’s) or bourbon

Directions

1. Step 1Place apples, lemon, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and ginger in an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker. Add just enough water to cover apples (about 4 1/2 cups). Close and set to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Turn off and allow to depressurize naturally for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
2. Step 2Strain contents through a fine mesh strainer, pressing out all liquid. Stir in maple syrup to taste.
3. Step 3Add apple brandy or bourbon to mugs, dividing evenly. Top with hot cider and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.