Mulled Apple Cider

Mulled apple cider is the ultimate cozy drink for fall and winter, combining warm, spiced flavors that make every sip feel like a hug on a chilly day.

It’s simple to make at home with just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, relaxing evenings by the fireplace, or festive brunches.

Plus, the best part?

The recipe is easy to customize, and as it simmers, it fills your home with a delicious, comforting aroma that embodies the spirit of the season.

P.S. In a hurry? Click the “Jump to Recipe” button to skip ahead to the recipe.

What is Mulled Apple Cider?

Mulled apple cider is a warm, spiced drink made by gently heating apple cider with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.

It’s a popular beverage during the fall and winter months, especially around the holiday season, including Thanksgiving and Christmas, when people crave cozy, comforting flavors.

The process of mulling enhances the cider’s natural sweetness, adding depth and warmth, making each sip rich and flavorful.

Served hot, it’s perfect for gatherings or for relaxing at home, filling your space with a festive, inviting aroma.

Ingredients for Mulled Apple Cider

To make delicious Mulled Apple Cider, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider – The base of the drink; choose high-quality, unfiltered cider for the richest flavor.
• 4-5 cinnamon sticks – Adds warmth and a familiar, comforting spice.
• 1-2 whole star anise – Infuses a mild licorice-like flavor and enhances visual appeal.
• 5-6 whole cloves – Deepens the flavor, adding aromatic spice and complexity.
• 1 orange, sliced – Provides bright, citrusy notes to balance the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey (optional) – Sweetens the cider; adjust based on your taste.
• Rum, brandy, or whiskey (optional) – For a spiked version, add your favorite spiced liquor
• Optional garnishes: apple slices, extra cinnamon sticks, or star anise for a decorative touch.

How to Make Mulled Apple Cider

Follow these steps to make a cozy, spiced Mulled Apple Cider:

Combine ingredients:

In a large pot or slow cooker, pour in 1 gallon of apple cider.

Add 4-5 cinnamon sticks, 1-2 whole star anise, 5-6 whole cloves, and slices from 1 orange. For a sweeter drink, mix in 1/4 cup of brown sugar or honey.

Tip: Use fresh, high-quality cider for the best flavor, and experiment with the sweetness based on your preference.

Heat the cider:

On the stovetop, heat over medium until it begins to simmer.

Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the spices to infuse deeply.

If using a slow cooker, set it on low and let it warm for 2-3 hours.

Longer simmering enhances the flavor, so feel free to let it cook gently for more time.

Spike It Up (optional)

For an alcoholic version of this mulled cider, add your favorite liquor after simmering. A spiced rum or whiskey goes great with this recipe!

Strain and serve:

Remove the whole spices and orange slices before serving.

Ladle the hot cider into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or star anise for a festive touch.

Keep warm:

If serving at a gathering, keep the cider warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, so guests can help themselves throughout the event.

Tips & Recipe Variations

You can easily customize your Mulled Apple Cider to suit different tastes:

• Add different spices: For a richer flavor, try adding cardamom pods, allspice berries, or a sprinkle of nutmeg. Each spice brings its own warmth and aroma, creating a unique blend.
• Make it boozy: Add a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy for a spiked version. These spirits complement the cider’s sweetness and enhance the warmth.
• Experiment with fruit: Include apple slices, cranberries, or a few slices of fresh ginger for a hint of tartness and extra flavor depth.
• Sweetness adjustment: Adjust sugar or honey based on your preference, or use maple syrup for a delightful, caramel-like twist.

Mulled Apple Cider Recipe