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Nothing beats a warm mug of spiced mulled cider on a crisp fall day. The aroma of cinnamon, oranges, and apples makes your home instantly cozy. Even better when you trade out the spice packet for this simple mulled cider recipe made with wholesome ingredients!
Whether served after trick-or-treating, for a holiday celebration, or alongside a fall dinner, like pumpkin pasta or slow cooker pork roast with apples, Homemade Mulled Cider is the ultimate cozy drink.
Kristen's Keys for Mulled Cider
This mulled cider recipe is a bit unique. But a few additions work to enhance apple cider, creating a memorable, warming drink. For the best results, keep in mind the following:
- Fruit juice is the difference. Pineapple juice and cranberry juice add incredible depth and sweet, tart notes to the cider -- more flavor than any spice packet can deliver! Not to mention, no added sugar.
- Use whole spices. For rich flavor and easy removal before serving. The only exception is nutmeg. Grate whole nutmeg right into the cider to release flavor.
- Go low and slow. Whether in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, gentle simmering keeps the cider from turning bitter.
How to Make Mulled Cider
Think of this step-by-step guide as me in the kitchen with you. But I promise, this recipe is incredibly simple.
Step One: Make a Spice Sachet
Instead of tossing spices straight into the pot, bundle cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and fresh ginger in a piece of cheesecloth or an unbleached coffee filter, then tie with kitchen twine. This makes cleanup a breeze.
Step Two: Combine Ingredients
Combine apple cider, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, orange slices, cranberries, and freshly grated nutmeg in the base of a slow cooker or large stockpot. Nestle in the spice sachet.
Step Three: Mull Cider
My favorite way to prepare mulled cider is to use the slow cooker, since this method is completely hands-off and requires no monitoring. But feel free to use the stovetop method; just keep a close eye on the cider.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 1-2 hours.
Step Four: Serve & Enjoy
Remove the spice sachet and fruit before serving. Ladle into mugs and enjoy warm.
For Spiked Mulled Cider: Stir in a splash of bourbon, whiskey, or brandy for the adults if desired.
More Cozy Beverages
Mulled Cider
Video
Ingredients
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 whole allspice berries
- 4 whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon fresh nutmeg, grated
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- ½ cup cranberry juice, optional
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
Instructions
Prepare Mulling Spices
- Place the cinnamon sticks, allspice, cloves, and ginger in the center of a piece of cheesecloth or an unbleached coffee filter. Gather the edges and tie them off with kitchen twine.
Slow Cooker Mulled Cider
- Place juice/cider, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, orange slices, cranberries, grated nutmeg, and mulling spices in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Remove the bundle of spices and serve.
Stovetop Mulled Cider
- Place juice/cider, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, orange slices, cranberries, grated nutmeg, and mulling spices in a heavy-bottomed stock pan.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1-2 hours, watching closely. Remove spices and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Absolutely amazing! It tastes great (hot or chilled) and it looks wonderful too! My new favorite beverage not just for the holidays, but for everyday. Thank you, mom!
I am so glad you enjoyed the cider! Thanks for sharing.
Hi, Kristen:
Did you mean to have the 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg grated twice in the recipe? I didn't see it listed in the ingredients to place in the spice bundle, just to add it grated directly into the juices.
No, it should only be there once.. i will fix asap.