Mulled cider doesn’t have to come from a big plastic jug at the grocery store–some of that stuff tastes like turpentine. Instead make your own with a few simple spices and good apple juice or high quality cider, then sit back with a blanket and feel the cozy.
Deck the cooler weather with a drink that makes everyone feel festive. Hot mulled cider screams “Deck the halls y’all”!
If you’re a mulled cider fan, I just can’t tell you how wonderful this drink is–because you know. But if you want to make it yourself for pennies compared to buying expensive pre-made mixes, this is the way to go.
Once you have the ingredients (which are mostly all shelf-stable), you just need a bottle of apple juice and you can enjoy this special treat all through the cold days to come.
What’s in mulled cider?
Mulled cider is made with either apple juice or apple cider and then seasoned with flavorings like nutmeg, allspice, cloves, orange peel and cinnamon. It’s usually enjoyed hot.
What cider is best to use in this recipe?
Any good apple cider will work here. It should be cloudy in the container (apple juice will also work if you can’t find cider) but it should smell like a fresh, sweet apple. Make sure you don’t buy anything that says “juice cocktail” or that has additives like corn syrup in it.
Does mulled cider have alcohol in it?
No, it doesn’t. You can add alcohol if that’s your thing. The cider can however go “off” after a couple of weeks in the fridge creating its own natural alcohols and make a natural hard cider.
What should I serve with mulled cider?
We usually enjoy ours during holiday dinner parties, at baby showers, or something similar so I usually recommend easy appetizers alongside. You might like to try:
Mulled Cider
Ingredients
- 6 cups 100% apple cider or apple juice
- 2 teaspoons allspice whole
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 3-inch fresh orange peel
- 2 large cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients in a pot and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and cook 5-7 minutes until the spices release their flavor.
- Cool slightly and serve warm.
- Store leftovers (cooled) in the apple juice container or a jar in the fridge for 7-10 days. It's okay to leave the spices in during storage.
Kim Honeycutt says
My husband and I love mulled cider when it’s cold. This sounds delicious!! Thank you!
Amy Griffin says
Sounds so tasty!
Erin @ The Speckled Palate says
I just realized that the comment I left over on your previous post about the egg casserole actually applies here. Oops. Goes to show what reading two posts in a row and THEN commenting on them will do to ya. Goodness.
This cider sounds divine, and I love how easy it is to make!
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Rachel! I hope y’all have a wonderful holiday!