Description
This Mulled Apple Cider recipe is a warm and aromatic beverage perfect for cozy gatherings. Infused with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, along with fresh ginger and lemon, this slow-cooked cider offers a comforting and flavorful drink that can be enjoyed spiked or non-alcoholic.
Ingredients
Scale
Mulled Apple Cider Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 large lemon, sliced
- 4 whole cinnamon sticks
- 2 tsp peppercorns
- 2 tbsp cardamom pods
- 2 whole star anise
- 4 inch piece of ginger, sliced and peel removed
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional
- 1 cup rum or whiskey (for spiked version)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a slow cooker, pour in the apple cider and add the sliced lemon, whole cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, cardamom pods, star anise, sliced ginger, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Heat mixture: Set the slow cooker to low heat and allow the cider mixture to simmer for 3 to 5 hours. This slow cooking process extracts the flavors from the spices and fruit, infusing the cider with warmth and aroma.
- Serve: When ready to serve, use a wooden spoon or ladle to stir and scoop around the whole spices. Add a few whole spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise into each glass for garnish and extra flavor.
- Optional spiked version: For an adult twist, add 1 cup of rum or whiskey to the cider before serving. Stir well to combine and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by choosing sweet or tart apple cider based on preference.
- Use a spice bag or cheesecloth to contain whole spices for easier removal if desired.
- The cider can be kept warm on low for several hours but is best consumed fresh.
- Substitute lemon with orange slices for a slightly different citrus note.
- Make sure to remove whole spices if serving to children or guests who might prefer a spice-free drink.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
