Get ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland of flavor with this mind-blowing Holiday Mulled Cider that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! Imagine a drink so perfectly spiced and comforting that it feels like a warm hug in a mug - this isn't just any ordinary cider, this is the ultimate cold-weather companion that will elevate your holiday gatherings from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 gallon of apple cider, 1 sliced orange, 1 sliced lemon, 8 whole cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar (if desired).
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in the entire gallon of apple cider. Place it over medium heat on the stove.
- As the cider begins to warm, add the sliced orange and lemon to the pot. This will infuse the cider with a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Next, add the 8 whole cloves and 2 cinnamon sticks to the pot. These spices will provide a warm, aromatic essence to the cider.
- Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. This spice adds a cozy, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- If you prefer a sweeter cider, add the optional 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Stir gently to ensure it dissolves completely into the mixture.
- Increase the heat to medium-high until the cider reaches a gentle simmer. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the cider simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher or bowl to remove the solid spices and fruit slices.
- Serve the mulled cider warm in mugs, garnishing each serving with a slice of fresh orange or a cinnamon stick for added flair. Enjoy your Holiday Mulled Cider throughout the day!
Tips
- Choose high-quality apple cider for the best flavor - fresh, local cider makes a huge difference!
- Keep the heat low after initial simmering to prevent burning the spices and losing delicate flavors.
- Don't rush the simmering process - letting the spices steep slowly develops a more complex taste.
- For an adult version, you can add a splash of bourbon or rum for extra warmth.
- Make a large batch and keep it warm in a slow cooker for easy serving at parties.
- Experiment with additional spices like star anise or ginger for a unique twist.
- Strain the cider carefully to ensure a smooth, clean drink without floating spice bits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
