Paula Deen’s Hot Cranberry Cider (Percolator): A Southern Holiday Tradition

The scent of cinnamon and cloves always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. She had this old, dependable percolator that she only brought out for special occasions, and the star of the show was always her spiced cranberry cider. The warmth of the mug in my hands, the tart-sweet flavor dancing on my tongue – it was the epitome of comfort and festive cheer. Now, I’m thrilled to share this warm tradition and a recipe that has been passed down and honed over the years.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yields: 3 1/2 quarts
• Serves: 18
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (naturally)

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 6 cups cranberry juice
• 8 cups apple juice or 8 cups cider

Equipment Needed

• Coffee Percolator
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your percolator. In the percolator basket, carefully add the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. In the bottom of the percolator, pour in the cranberry juice and apple juice (or cider).
3. Assemble the percolator according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Perk the mixture just as you would when making coffee. This process typically takes about 5 minutes once the percolator starts.
5. Once the cider has finished perking, carefully pour it into mugs.
6. Serve the hot cranberry cider immediately. For an extra touch, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick for stirring.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Designate a Percolator: Paula Deen suggests dedicating a cheaper percolator to this recipe, as the spices can infuse the pot with their scent. This is a wise idea if you prefer to avoid any lingering spice aroma in your regular coffee.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cider, start with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and taste after perking. Add more to your preference. Conversely, use maple syrup or honey for an alternative sweetener.
• Spice Level Control: For a milder spice flavor, reduce the number of cloves. If you like a more intense spice, consider adding a few allspice berries to the basket.
• Pre-warming Perks: Before adding the juice, warm the percolator with hot water. This prevents the cider from cooling down too quickly once perked.
• Avoid Over-Perking: Perking for too long can cause the cider to become bitter. Once the perking cycle is complete, switch the percolator to the “warm” setting to maintain the temperature without over-extracting the spices.
• Spice Placement: Ensure the spices are loosely packed in the basket to allow for proper water circulation and flavor infusion.
• Garnish Upgrade: Elevate your presentation by adding orange slices, star anise, or fresh cranberries as garnishes.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the hot cranberry cider immediately after perking for the best flavor and warmth. For a festive touch, provide cinnamon sticks as stirrers or garnish the mugs with orange slices.

If you have any leftover cider, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Do not leave the cider at room temperature for longer than 2 hours, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture and flavor may be altered upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	110 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	2 g	2%
Total Fat	0.3 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0.1 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	7.1 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	27.5 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	0%
Sugars	25 g	99%
Protein	0.1 g	0%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the basket for an extra layer of warmth.
• Citrus Twist: Include slices of orange or lemon in the bottom of the percolator for a citrus-infused cider.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your liking.
• Boozy Version: Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to each mug for an adult-friendly version.
• Berry Blend: Incorporate other fruit juices like pomegranate or raspberry for a unique flavor combination.
• Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the basket for an herbaceous twist.
• Sparkling Cider: After perking, allow the cider to cool, then mix it with sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly beverage.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-ground spices instead of whole cinnamon sticks and cloves?
A: While you can use ground spices, whole spices provide a more robust and nuanced flavor. If using ground, add about 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves.

Q: My cider tastes bitter. What did I do wrong?
A: Over-perking can lead to bitterness. Ensure you are only perking for the recommended time. Also, using too many cloves can contribute to a bitter taste.

Q: Can I make this cider without a percolator?
A: Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot on the stovetop for about 20-30 minutes, then strain before serving.

Q: How can I keep the cider warm for a longer period?
A: Use a slow cooker or an insulated beverage dispenser to maintain the cider’s temperature for several hours.

Q: Can I add fresh cranberries to the percolator?
A: Yes, adding about 1 cup of fresh cranberries to the bottom of the percolator will enhance the flavor and add a festive touch.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Hot Cranberry Cider (Percolator) is more than just a drink; it’s an invitation to gather, share, and celebrate the joys of the season. This recipe offers a comforting blend of tart cranberries, sweet apple cider, and warming spices that will surely delight your family and friends. So, dust off that percolator, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aroma fill your home with holiday cheer! And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to make it your own family tradition. Share your feedback and variations with me – I’d love to hear how you make this recipe special!