Save It Spider Cider is my go-to autumn party drink because it wraps up all the best festive flavors in a steaming mug. Sweetly spiced apple cider is gently mulled so everyone walks in to the cozy aroma of cinnamon and orange. And with edible licorice spiders perched on each glass, you have the ultimate Halloween crowd-pleaser that is big on clever presentation but low in fuss.
I still remember hosting a backyard Halloween get together where this cider stole the show. The kids couldn't get enough of the candy eyes and licorice and the grownups loved it with a rum kick. Now, my family requests Spider Cider for every fall gathering.
Ingredients
- Apple cider: Unfiltered cider brings deep flavor and body to your mulled drink Choose local fresh cider if possible for best taste
- Orange: Fresh slices add brightness and beautiful color Look for medium oranges with a fragrant peel
- Cinnamon sticks: Whole sticks infuse warmth and classic autumn spice Select fresh sticks that snap cleanly for maximum flavor release
- Whole cloves: These tiny dried buds create the classic mulled scent and digestibility Make sure they feel firm not crumbly
- Allspice berries: Round out the spice blend and add peppery undertones Pick plump berries with a strong aroma
- Star anise: Distinct sweet spicy note and pretty appearance If you love licorice flavor use extra
- Fresh ginger: Sliced ginger wakes up the sweetness and keeps the drink vibrant Choose ginger that is smooth and free of wrinkles
- Brown sugar: Optional sweetener for mellow caramel undertones Use dark brown sugar for richer flavor
- Whole black peppercorns: These are optional if you like a subtle buzz Spice up the batch but use a light hand
- Black licorice wheels: Use for spider legs Pick soft fresh licorice for easy shaping
- Large black grapes: Choose firm seedless grapes for the spider bodies Substitute black olives for a fun savory variation
- Candy eyes or small white chocolate chips: Little edible eyes for each spider Choose allergen free brands if needed
- Honey or melted chocolate: Needed to stick the eyes onto the grapes or olives Use whichever pairs best with your spider body choice
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Pour apple cider into a large saucepan Set burner to medium heat Add sliced orange cinnamon sticks whole cloves allspice berries star anise sliced ginger brown sugar and peppercorns All ingredients should sit comfortably in the pot No overcrowding
- Simmer for Flavor Perfection:
- Once the cider is gently steaming lower the heat to maintain a slow simmer Cover with a lid Allow the cider to cook for 20 to 25 minutes Aromatic oils from the spices infuse into the cider The orange will soften and the mixture smells irresistible
- Strain and Hold Warm:
- Take the pan off the heat Place a strainer over a second pot or a large bowl Carefully pour the mulled cider through the strainer removing all solids Discard spices and fruit slices Set the strained cider back on low warmth Keep covered so flavors stay fresh
- Prep the Spider Garnish:
- While the cider simmers cut the black licorice wheels or ropes into thin pieces Each spider needs eight legs about three inches long Gather one large grape or olive for every serving Place cocktail picks close at hand
- Assemble the Spiders:
- Pierce each grape with a cocktail pick Position four licorice legs on each side by gently inserting into the grape Secure tightly The result should resemble a spider Place two candy eyes or white chocolate chips on the front using a dab of honey or melted chocolate Let set for a few minutes so eyes do not slide off
- Serve with Style:
- Ladle hot spider cider into mugs or heatproof glasses Rest each spider garnish across the rim letting legs dangle Decorate each serving so guests enjoy a spooky surprise
Save It The first year I made these licorice spiders my nephew spent the entire afternoon making silly faces on each one and now he is in charge of garnish assembly every Halloween Your choice of cider really sets the tone so I always recommend a fresh orchard batch for special occasions
Storage Tips
Spider cider keeps beautifully in the fridge up to three days Store covered and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave Garnishes should be assembled fresh for best appearance You can prepare the spice blend ahead and store in an airtight container
Ingredient Substitutions
Apple juice will work if cider is hard to find Add extra orange slices and a splash of lemon for more tang Chocolate truffles or pitted prunes can replace grapes for spider bodies Use raspberry licorice for different spider colors
Serving Suggestions
Pair each steaming mug with cinnamon sugar donuts ginger cookies or spiced biscotti Set up a spider decorating station where guests can customize their drinks with different candy eyes or fruit legs This cider is festive for bonfires and hayrides too
Save It This Spider Cider always makes Halloween gatherings memorable and delicious. Let everyone help build their own spooky spider garnish for extra fun.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I enhance the spice flavor?
Simmer the cider with whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise for at least 20-25 minutes to infuse deep, rich aromas. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less of your favorites.
- → Can I substitute apple juice for cider?
Yes, apple juice works well. Use unfiltered if possible, and consider reducing any sweeteners since juice is typically sweeter than cider.
- → What can I use if I don't like licorice?
Try chocolate ropes, pretzel sticks, or other candy alternatives for spider legs, and use grapes or chocolate truffles for the bodies.
- → Is this suitable for children with allergies?
Check all candy and licorice labels for allergens. Apple cider is usually gluten-free, but some candies may contain gluten or artificial dyes.
- → How should I serve this for a party?
Keep the cider warm on the stove or in a slow cooker, and let guests add their own spider garnishes for interactive fun. It pairs well with seasonal snacks.