Description
Pumpkin Apple Cider with Cinnamon Cream is a warm, comforting drink perfect for chilly mornings or relaxed evenings. Combining fresh pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, aromatic cinnamon, and natural spices, topped with a luscious plant-based cinnamon cream, this beverage delivers cozy flavors without dairy. Optional smoked turkey bacon adds a smoky twist. Simple to prepare and highly customizable, this recipe brings a soothing hug in a mug for any time you want to unwind.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Apple Cider Base
- 1 cup fresh pumpkin puree
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (natural)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (natural)
Cinnamon Cream Topping
- 1 cup plant-based milk (such as oat or almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
Optional Add-in
- Smoked turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Garnishes (optional)
- Cinnamon powder (natural), for sprinkle
- Cinnamon sticks
- Nutmeg powder (natural)
- Plant-based whipped cream
- Toasted plant-based marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Apple Cider Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup. Stir frequently to blend the flavors evenly and warm the mixture gently without bringing it to a boil. This slow heating allows the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and the brightness of the cider vinegar to combine harmoniously.
- Make the Cinnamon Cream: While the cider base warms, whisk together the plant-based milk, natural gelling agent, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk continuously as you slowly heat it, allowing the cream to thicken to a luscious, soft but stable texture. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Optional Smoked Turkey Bacon Addition: If using smoked turkey bacon, cook the slices in a pan until crispy. Crumble the cooked bacon and either sprinkle it on top of the cider or gently stir it into the warm cider base to create a smoky savory note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the warm pumpkin apple cider into mugs. Spoon the thickened cinnamon cream over the top of each cup. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon powder for extra aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately to enjoy the full creamy comfort at its best.
Notes
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best texture and flavor, though canned can be substituted if needed.
- Keep the heat low to medium to avoid burning spices or curdling the cream.
- Whisk the cinnamon cream constantly while heating to prevent lumps and achieve a silky texture.
- Adjust sweetness gradually by adding maple syrup in stages to suit your preference.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal warmth, flavor, and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pumpkin apple cider, cinnamon cream, plant-based drink, cozy beverage, autumn drink, dairy-free cider, warm pumpkin drink
