Get ready to make your home smell amazing with hot mulled cider! This easy apple cider recipe is perfect for the holiday season.
Whether you’re having friends over or just want a cozy drink by the fire, this mulled cider will become your favorite.
Ruby Ann and I can’t get enough of this recipe during the cozy fall and winter months—it’s a seasonal favorite to make in our home! What we love most is how easy it is to make it your own. Feel free to add a little extra cinnamon or skip the allspice altogether—it’s all about customizing it to your taste. We love it, and we’re sure you will, too!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
As the temperatures drop, Ruby Ann and I always look forward to wrapping our hands around a warm mug of this comforting drink. There’s something magical about how the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and orange slices blend together to create the ultimate holiday treat. It’s the perfect way to cozy up and savor the season!
COZY FLAVOR: This hot mulled cider is a cozy drink that’s perfect for the holiday season. It’s made with fresh apple juice or cider, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and a little orange zest. You can even add star anise pods or a splash of bourbon or rum if you like.
EASY TO MAKE: This recipe is super easy. You can use a slow cooker, a large pot, a Dutch oven, or a crock pot. Just put all the spices, fresh apple cider, and some brown sugar in the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for 30 minutes to 2 hours on the stovetop or up to 6 hours in a crock pot. Simmering slow and long brings out the best flavor.
SMELLS AMAZING: This hot mulled apple cider smells so good! The cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and fresh ginger are optional, and orange slices or peel make your house smell like the holidays. Serve it in mugs with a slice of orange or fresh cranberries for a festive touch.
Tips for Making Mulled Apple Cider
- Garnish: Serve the mulled cider in warm mugs. Add a slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or some fresh cranberries on top for a festive look.
- Use Fresh Cider: Start with fresh apple juice or apple cider from your grocery store or a farmers market. Unfiltered apple juice or cider is the best for flavor.
- Use Whole Spices: Whole spices like cinnamon sticks and whole cloves make the cider taste better. Ground spices can make it cloudy. We have used whole and ground with great success. Ground spices will kick up the warming effects. But keep in mind it will make your mulled cider cloudy.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the cider on low heat. Don’t let it boil because it can make the cider taste too strong.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Add fresh ginger* optional, orange slices, and apple slices to make the cider taste even better.
- Sweeten to Taste: You can add brown sugar, honey, or even a splash of bourbon or rum to make it sweeter. Omit the bourbon and rum to keep it alcohol-free.
- Use a Slow Cooker: If you’re making a big batch for a holiday gathering, a slow cooker is great for keeping the cider warm. Set it on low, and your guests can serve themselves.
- Strain Before Serving: Strain out the spices using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth before you serve the cider. This makes it smoother to drink.
FAQ
What is homemade mulled cider?
Homemade mulled cider is a warm drink made by heating fresh apple cider with spices like cinnamon sticks and cloves. It’s perfect for the holiday season.
What spices are used in mulled cider?
Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise pods, and fresh ginger are commonly used. You can also add orange peel and cardamom pods.
How do I make homemade mulled cider?
Pour fresh apple cider, spices, and sweeteners into a large pot or slow cooker. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes to a few hours, then strain and serve warm.
Is mulled cider an alcoholic drink?
Mulled cider can be made without alcohol, or you can add a splash of bourbon, rum, or red wine.
What are some variations of mulled cider?
You can add cranberries, fresh apples, or lemon peel for different flavors. Sweeteners like honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup can also change the taste.
What’s the best way to serve mulled cider?
Serve mulled cider warm in mugs. Add a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick on top to make it look nice.
Tools you may need
- Enameled Dutch Oven
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mortar and Pestle (optional)
- Wooden Spoon
- Juicer (optional)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Strainer
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Ingredients you will need to make Mulled Apple Cider
Vanilla Extract: A flavoring made from vanilla beans that is commonly used in baked goods and desserts. It has a sweet, floral aroma and adds a rich, warm flavor.
Peppercorns – A spicy and pungent spice that adds a distinct flavor to any dish.
Allspice Berries – A fragrant spice that has a warm and sweet flavor with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Fresh Apple Cider: Start with high-quality, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.
Cinnamon Sticks: Essential for that warm, spicy taste.
Whole Cloves: Add depth and a rich, aromatic flavor.
Orange: Fresh orange slices and zest bring a bright, citrusy note.
Brown Sugar: For sweetness and a touch of caramel flavor.
Star Anise Pods: Optional, but they add a unique licorice-like flavor.
Lemon Juice – A sour and acidic juice that adds a tangy and bright flavor to any dish.
Brown Sugar – A sweet and caramel-like sugar that adds a rich and deep flavor to any recipe.
Fresh Ginger: *optional A small piece of fresh ginger adds warmth and a hint of spice.
Fresh Cranberries: *optional, for garnish and a pop of color.
Star Anise Seeds *optional – A licorice-flavored spice that adds a unique and slightly sweet flavor to any dish.
How To Make Mulled Apple Cider on The Stove Top
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by juicing fresh apples—our favorite mix is Granny Smith and Gala for that perfect balance of sweet and tart, but use whatever apples you have on hand. If you’re short on time, store-bought apple juice or cider works just as well. Pour juice or cider into a large pot, crock pot, or Dutch oven. Now for the fun part—add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, sliced orange, allspice berries, lemon juice, peppercorns, tablespoons of brown sugar, and a little fresh ginger if you like a zing of warmth. Leave the spices whole for a more mellow flavor, or grind them up for a bold, spicy kick. Either way, you’re setting yourself up for a cozy treat.
Step 2: Simmer
Place the pot over medium heat and let it come to a simmer. As soon as it starts bubbling, turn the heat down low and let the cider simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. If you want the spices to really pack a punch, let it simmer for up to 2 hours—the longer it simmers, the richer the flavor gets.
Step 3: Strain
When your kitchen smells like a warm, spiced hug, it’s time to strain out the spices. Use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to catch all those cloves, cinnamon sticks, and other spices.
Step 4: Serve
Pour the steaming hot mulled cider into your favorite mugs and add a slice of orange or a handful of fresh cranberries for that festive touch. Now all that’s left to do is cozy up, sip, and enjoy the warmth of this delicious drink!
How to Make Hot Mulled Apple Cider in a Crock Pot
Step 1: Add Ingredients
Start by pouring the apple cider into your crock pot, filling your home with those cozy fall vibes. Toss in 2-3 cinnamon sticks, 6-8 whole cloves, 4-6 allspice berries, and 2-3 star anise (if you’re feeling adventurous). Add slices of a juicy orange and crisp apple, along with a few slices of fresh ginger for a zing of warmth. If you like your cider a bit sweeter, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar.
Step 2: Simmer
Set your crock pot to low heat, cover it up, and let the magic happen. As it simmers for 4-6 hours, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of spices and fruit, making everything feel extra cozy and inviting.
Step 3: Serve
When it’s time to serve, ladle the steaming cider into mugs. For that perfect festive touch, garnish with a slice of fresh fruit and a cinnamon stick. Keep the crock pot on the warm setting so you and your guests can sip on this cozy treat all day long!
Enjoy your cozy hot mulled apple cider!
Storage Ideas
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cider in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Mason Jars: Pour hot mulled cider into mason jars, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to a week and make great gifts!
- Ice Cube Trays: Freeze leftover cider in ice cube trays for future use. These cider cubes are perfect for quick reheating or adding flavor to other drinks.
For even more delicious, homemade treats, explore our favorite cozy recipes below;
- Sourdough Apple Fritters Recipe (discard or starter)
- Easy Homemade Vanilla Extract Recipe (how to make)
- Sourdough Cranberry Orange Bread
- Sourdough Fruit Cake Recipe (starter or discard)
- Spritz Cookie Recipe
Ruby Ann and I love making this hot mulled apple cider every year, and we hope you do too! If you make this recipe, tag us @themoderndaycottage on Instagram and leave a comment below. Don’t forget to 📌 pin this recipe to your 📌 Pinterest board for future baking adventures. Happy sippin’!
Mulled Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 4 peppercorns
- 1 ½ quarts of freshly juiced apple juice or pre-bought you can also use apple cider
- 6 allspice berries
- 6-12 whole cloves
- 2 sticks of cinnamon
- ½ sliced orange
- 2 tsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbs of brown sugar
- 2 star anise seeds *optional
How To Make
- 1. Juice 8 apples (we love using a mix of Granny Smith and Gala, but feel free to use any variety you have on hand). If you prefer, you can skip the fresh juice and use store-bought apple juice or apple cider. Pour 1 1/2 quarts of apple juice or cider into a large pot, crock pot, or Dutch oven.
- 2. Next, add 2 cinnamon sticks, 6-12 whole cloves, 1/2 an orange (sliced), 6 allspice berries, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, 4 peppercorns, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and fresh ginger (optional). You can either add the spices whole or grind them using a mortar and pestle for a spicier kick. We prefer leaving them whole, but grinding the spices will give your cider an extra layer of warm, cozy spice.
- 3. Set the pot over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. For a bolder flavor, you can let it simmer for up to 2 hours, allowing the spices to fully infuse the cider.
- 4. Once your cider has reached your desired flavor, strain out the spices using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- 5. Pour the hot mulled cider into mugs and garnish with a slice of orange or a few fresh cranberries for an extra festive touch. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy this warm, cozy drink!
Notes
- Use fresh, good-quality apple cider for the best taste.
- Don’t let the cider boil because it can lose its flavor.
- For better flavor, use whole spices and grind them yourself. You can use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to do this before adding them to the cider.
- You can make the cider taste even better by adding things like orange slices, cranberries, or brandy.
- Let the cider simmer for at least 5 to 30 minutes so the flavors can mix together well.
- Taste the cider while it simmers to make sure the spices are just right for you.
- Use cheesecloth or a tea infuser to keep the spices together so you can easily take them out when the cider is done.
- If you’re serving the cider to a lot of people, keep it warm in a mug or a punch bowl.
- For extra flavor and a nice look, you can serve the cider with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick.
- Store any leftover cider in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you want to enjoy it again.
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