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As the weather gets cooler and the leaves turn shades of red and gold, there’s nothing like a warm drink to keep you cozy. This November, I want to share a unique recipe for cannabis-infused apple cider with a spiced whipped cream topping. This drink not only warms you from the inside out but also brings a sense of calm and comfort—perfect for those chilly nights leading up to Thanksgiving. As a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, I love combining classic seasonal flavors with a twist that elevates the experience, and this cider does just that.
The Inspiration
I remember a particular November evening a few years back. My friends and I were gathered on the porch, wrapped in blankets as the cold air swept through the trees. I decided to make a batch of hot apple cider, and on a whim, I added a bit of cannabis-infused honey that I’d been experimenting with. The result was magical—everyone relaxed, the conversation flowed easily, and we all felt truly present in that moment. Since then, this cannabis-infused apple cider has become a staple of my fall gatherings, offering warmth and a sense of togetherness. So grab a bag of your favorite herb, twist one up and let’s get Cooking with a Buz!
Ingredients
For the Apple Cider:
8 cups fresh apple cider
3 cinnamon sticks
5 whole cloves
1 orange, sliced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
3-4 tablespoons cannabis-infused honey (start with less if you’re unsure about potency)
1 whole star anise (optional)
For the Spiced Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon cannabis-infused coconut oil (optional, for an extra kick)
Instructions
To make the apple cider, start by grabbing a large pot and pouring in the apple cider. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and brown sugar, and put the pot over medium heat. Let it come to a gentle simmer, giving it a stir every now and then to make sure the flavors blend together nicely. Let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll notice the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen, and that’s when you know it’s ready. Once the cider has simmered and all those lovely flavors have melded together, turn the heat down to low. Now it’s time to add the cannabis-infused honey. I personally like using a mild strain like Harlequin for its relaxing but not overwhelming effects. Slowly stir in the honey until it’s completely dissolved into the cider, as this step is key to getting that smooth, balanced infusion.
After the honey is mixed in, it’s time to strain out the spices. Use a strainer to remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and star anise so you’re left with just the smooth, delicious cider. Grab your favorite mugs and ladle in the warm cider, making sure to leave a bit of room at the top for the whipped cream. Now for the whipped cream! In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Whip it until you see soft peaks form—it should be light and fluffy. If you want an extra cannabis kick, you can gently fold in some cannabis-infused coconut oil at this stage. I recommend using a sativa-dominant strain like Lemon Haze for a bright and uplifting touch, adding that extra bit of magic to the cream.
Finally, spoon a generous dollop of the spiced whipped cream on top of each mug of apple cider. For that extra cozy touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top or add a cinnamon stick as a garnish. Take a moment to enjoy how inviting it looks, and then dive in. The warmth of the cider and the creamy topping make for the perfect treat on a chilly fall evening.
Chef’s Tips
Dosage Control: Be mindful of the potency of your cannabis-infused honey and coconut oil. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your comfort level. I recommend starting with 5-10mg of THC per serving for a relaxing but manageable effect.
Know Your Audience: This recipe is perfect for an intimate gathering where everyone is comfortable with cannabis. It’s always good to have non-infused versions of your drinks available, especially for those who may not want to partake.
Customize Your Spices: Feel free to add other spices to suit your taste. Cardamom or nutmeg can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity to the cider.
A Warm Gathering
The beauty of this cannabis-infused apple cider is that it brings people together. I’ve served this recipe countless times, whether on chilly porch nights or around the fireplace indoors. There’s something about the combination of warm apple, aromatic spices, and the gentle calming effects of cannabis that makes people feel at ease. It’s not just a drink—it’s an experience that encourages connection and comfort, which is what November is all about.
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