Hot Mulled Cider Recipe

Introduction

Warm up chilly evenings with this comforting hot mulled cider recipe. Infused with spices and citrus, it’s a perfect drink for gatherings or quiet nights at home.

Ingredients

• 2 quarts apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 small orange, sliced
• 1 small lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise. Stir to mix, then add the sliced orange and lemon.
2. Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently with the lid slightly ajar for 4 to 8 hours to develop flavor.
3. Step 3: After simmering, strain the cider through a piece of cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove spices and fruit slices. Return the clear liquid to the pot.
4. Step 4: Ladle the warm mulled cider into mugs and serve immediately. Enjoy the cozy flavors!

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier version, add a few slices of fresh ginger during simmering.
• You can substitute brown sugar or honey for the white sugar for a richer taste.
• Try adding a splash of rum or bourbon into each mug for an adult version.
• Prepare the mixture the night before for an even deeper flavor infusion.

Storage

Store leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Avoid boiling again to preserve flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?

Fresh apple juice has a different flavor and is usually filtered, which may result in a less rich mulled cider. Using unfiltered apple cider will give the best taste.

How long can I simmer the mulled cider?

You can simmer it anywhere from 4 to 8 hours on low heat. The longer it simmers, the more infused and flavorful it becomes, but avoid boiling to prevent bitterness.

Hot Mulled Cider Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 50 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A warm, comforting Hot Mulled Cider recipe perfect for cozy gatherings. This spiced beverage combines apple cider with citrus juices and aromatic spices, slowly simmered for hours to develop rich, festive flavors. Ideal for chilly evenings and holiday celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Liquid Ingredients

• 2 quarts apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Sweetener

• 1/4 cup sugar

Spices

• 3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 2 whole star anise

Fresh Fruit

• 1 small orange (sliced)
• 1 small lemon (sliced)

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Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly, then add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot.
2. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer with the lid slightly ajar. Let it simmer for 4 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
3. Strain the Cider: After simmering, strain the mulled cider through a piece of cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices and fruit slices. Return the clear, spiced cider back into the pot.
4. Serve Warm: Ladle the hot mulled cider into mugs and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy the comforting, spiced beverage with friends or family.

Notes

• Simmering the cider for longer intensifies the flavor; adjust time based on your preference.
• Use a low simmer to avoid boiling off the flavors and to keep the cider from becoming too concentrated.
• Straining properly will ensure a smooth drink without any residue or whole spices.
• For a boozy twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum when serving.
• Mulled cider can be kept warm in a slow cooker on the low setting for serving at parties.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 8 hours
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: hot mulled cider, spiced apple cider, autumn drink, holiday beverage, warm cider, mulled drinks