Tart Cherry Recipe - Spiced Cider with Cherry Juice

Quick Summary

Warm, fragrant, and festive — this Cherry Juice Spiced Cider blends apple cider, orange juice, and a splash of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate for a comforting drink that delights both kids and adults alike. Perfect for chilly nights and holiday gatherings.

Published: February 2011 | Updated: October 2025

Chef’s Note 

This recipe has been a Traverse Bay Farms holiday favorite since our first winter in Bellaire. During our holiday open house, we served this cherry-infused cider to shoppers, and it quickly became tradition. The addition of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate gave the classic cider a ruby-red hue and a flavor that customers couldn’t stop talking about. It’s simple, heartwarming, and smells like Christmas in a cup.

Prep & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Simmer Time: 15 minutes

• Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 quart apple cider

• ¾ cup orange juice

• ¼ cup maraschino cherry juice (or substitute 2 tbsp Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate)

• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick

• 1 strip (½x3-inch) orange peel

• 3 whole cloves

• 3 whole allspice

• 16 maraschino cherries (for garnish)

• 8 orange slice halves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine apple cider, orange juice, Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, cinnamon stick, orange peel, cloves, and allspice.

2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

3. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to infuse flavors.

4. Strain out spices and orange peel.

5. Place 2 maraschino cherries and 1 orange slice half in each mug.

6. Pour about ⅔ cup of hot cider into each mug.

7. Serve warm and enjoy the holiday aroma!

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add a cinnamon stick to each mug for presentation and flavor.

• For a more tart version, use an extra tablespoon of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate.

• Chill leftovers and serve cold over ice for a refreshing twist.

Nutritional Highlight

This beverage combines the natural antioxidant benefits of tart cherries with vitamin-rich orange juice and apple cider — a wholesome alternative to sugary holiday drinks.

Behind the Recipe

At Traverse Bay Farms, we believe in sharing traditions that bring families together. This Cherry Juice Spiced Cider is a perfect example — it’s festive, aromatic, and celebrates the Michigan cherries that inspired our entire brand.

People Also Ask

Can I make Cherry Juice Spiced Cider ahead of time?
Yes — prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.

Can I make it alcohol-free?
It’s naturally alcohol-free, making it perfect for kids and family gatherings.

Can I serve it chilled?
Yes — it’s delicious served over ice as a summer punch.

What other spices can I use?
Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or star anise for a deeper flavor.

Bring the Taste Home

Add Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate to your favorite drinks for a touch of natural cherry flavor and color. Made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible and trusted nationwide for its purity and taste.