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Apple Tea

A naturally sweet and aromatic beverage made with fresh apples, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. This comforting tea requires minimal effort but delivers maximum coziness, perfect for cold afternoons or winding down after a long day.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: International
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 large apples honeycrisp, granny smith, or fuji work best, cored and sliced
  • 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2-3 whole cloves
  • 1- inch piece of fresh ginger sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons honey adjust to taste
  • 1/2 lemon sliced thin
  • Pinch of sea salt

Equipment

  • Large pot or saucepan (at least 2-quart capacity)
  • Sharp knife for slicing apples
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Mugs for serving
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Wash your apples thoroughly under running water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Core and slice each apple into thin half-moons, leaving the skin on for extra fiber and nutrients.
  2. Pour six cups of fresh, cold water into your pot and set it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
  3. Before the water boils, add your cinnamon stick and whole cloves directly to the cold water. Starting spices in cold water allows them to infuse gradually and release their oils evenly.
  4. While waiting for the water to heat, slice your fresh ginger into thin coins and cut your lemon into thin wheels.
  5. Watch the pot and let the water come to a gentle boil around the spices. Once you see bubbles actively breaking the surface, reduce the heat to medium so the water simmers rather than rolling boils.
  6. Carefully add your sliced apples and ginger to the simmering water, stirring gently with a wooden spoon.
  7. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll notice the water turning a pale golden color and the aroma becoming richer and more complex.
  8. Add your lemon slices and honey to the pot, stirring until the honey dissolves completely into the hot liquid.
  9. Continue simmering for another 3 to 5 minutes, tasting as you go to adjust sweetness and spice levels. Add a tiny pinch of sea salt right at the end.
  10. Pour the tea through a fine mesh strainer into your mugs, letting the liquid flow through while keeping back the solids. Serve immediately or let it cool slightly.

Notes

Store brewed apple tea in a covered glass container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to develop and blend as it sits. You can freeze apple tea in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Gently warm refrigerated tea over medium-low heat on the stovetop rather than using the microwave to preserve the delicate spice flavors.