Imagine walking into a cozy room filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices, citrus, and rich red wine - that's exactly what this Slow Cooker Mulled Wine promises to deliver! Perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or when you simply need a luxurious warm drink, this recipe transforms an ordinary bottle of wine into a magical, soul-warming elixir that will make your taste buds dance and your guests swoon. With just minutes of preparation and a few hours of slow simmering, you'll create a beverage that's not just a drink, but an experience.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
Instructions
- Pour the entire bottle of red wine into the slow cooker, using a full-bodied wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for best flavor.
- Wash the orange thoroughly, then slice it into thin rounds, ensuring seeds are removed. Add the orange slices directly into the slow cooker.
- Measure and add the brandy to the wine, which will enhance the depth and warmth of the drink.
- Sprinkle the sugar into the liquid, stirring gently to help it begin dissolving.
- Add the whole spices - cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise - distributing them evenly throughout the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat setting. Allow the mixture to warm and infuse for approximately 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally to ensure sugar is completely dissolved and spices are well integrated.
- When ready to serve, use a fine mesh strainer to remove whole spices and orange slices.
- Ladle the warm mulled wine into mugs, garnishing with a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the aromatic and warming beverage.
Tips
- • Choose a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for the richest flavor profile. • Use fresh, whole spices for the most intense aromatic experience. • Keep the slow cooker on low heat to prevent alcohol evaporation and maintain the wine's integrity. • Don't rush the infusion process - letting the spices steep slowly develops deeper, more complex flavors. • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute wine with grape juice and follow the same preparation method. • Strain the mulled wine before serving to remove whole spices and create a smooth drinking experience. • Garnish with fresh orange slices or cinnamon sticks for an elegant presentation. • Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat the next day for continued enjoyment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
