Hot Mulled Apple Cider is a warm and cozy drink that’s perfect for chilly days and festive evenings. It’s made by gently heating fresh apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a little orange zest, filling your home with the sweetest, spiciest aromas you can imagine.
I love making this cider when friends come over or when I just need a little comfort after being outside in the cold. The spices add such a nice touch without being overpowering, and it’s so easy to keep warm on the stove for hours. I often sneak a little extra cinnamon in because I’m a big fan of that spicy kick.
Serving it in a sturdy mug with a cinnamon stick for stirring feels like a special treat every time. It’s great with a cozy blanket and your favorite book or as a cheerful drink to share with family around the table. This Hot Mulled Apple Cider quickly becomes a favorite that everyone looks forward to when the weather turns cool.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Using unfiltered apple cider gives the best fresh, fruity flavor. If you can’t find unfiltered, regular apple juice works too. For a lighter twist, try sparkling apple cider.
Spices (Cinnamon, Star Anise, Cloves): These whole spices build the classic warm flavor. Ground versions can be used if that’s all you have, but use less—ground spices are stronger.
Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness and depth. I prefer maple syrup for a subtle caramel note, but honey or coconut sugar also work well.
Fresh Ginger (Optional): Adds a gentle spicy warmth. Feel free to skip it or substitute with ground ginger for a milder flavor.
Apples and Oranges: They add freshness and a natural sweetness. Any crisp apple variety works. For oranges, if fresh isn’t available, dried orange peel is a good alternative.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Mulling Apple Cider?
The key is gently heating and simmering, not boiling. Boiling can change the taste and lose the fresh apple notes.
- Start with cold cider and add all ingredients.
- Heat slowly on low to medium heat until just hot, around 30-45 minutes.
- Keeping it on low after heating helps keep flavors melding without overcooking.
- Strain before serving so you don’t get tough spices or fruit chunks unexpectedly.
- If using a slow cooker, set to low for the same gentle warming effect over time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – It heats the cider evenly and prevents burning.
- Slow cooker (optional) – Great for keeping cider warm for hours during gatherings.
- Fine mesh strainer – Helps remove spices and fruit slices for smooth pouring.
- Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Measuring spoons – To measure out spices precisely for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon for an adult version that’s warm and comforting.
- Swap star anise for a few cardamom pods to give the cider a slightly floral note.
- Mix in fresh cranberries while simmering for a tart twist and bright color.
- Try adding a vanilla bean or a dash of vanilla extract for a sweet, creamy hint.
How to Make Hot Mulled Apple Cider
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cider:
- 1 gallon (3.8 liters) apple cider (unfiltered if possible)
- 2 large apples, thinly sliced
- 1 large orange, thinly sliced
Spices & Sweeteners:
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole star anise
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries (optional)
- ¼ cup brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
For Garnish (optional):
- Additional cinnamon sticks
- Star anise
- Apple or orange slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30–45 minutes to simmer so the flavors can blend nicely. If you keep it warm in a slow cooker, it can stay ready for hours while you enjoy it with friends and family.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Ingredients & Prepare the Pot
Pour the apple cider into a large pot or your slow cooker. Add the thinly sliced apples and oranges into the pot gently so they float in the cider.
2. Add Spices and Sweeten
Toss in the cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, and allspice berries if you want. If you like a bit more warmth, add the fresh ginger slices. Stir in the brown sugar or maple syrup to sweeten the cider just how you like it.
3. Heat and Simmer
Warm the mixture slowly on low to medium heat until hot but not boiling. Let it gently simmer for 30 to 45 minutes — this will let the spices and fruit flavors come through nicely.
4. Taste, Adjust, and Strain
Give your cider a taste. If you want it sweeter, add a little more sugar or syrup. Once it’s just right, remove from heat and strain out the fruit slices and whole spices so it pours smoothly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Pour the hot mulled cider into mugs. Make it extra special by garnishing with a cinnamon stick, star anise, or a slice of apple or orange. If needed, keep the cider warm on very low heat or in a slow cooker while serving.
Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the cider in the fridge overnight before warming it up. This helps maintain the best flavor and prevents clumping of spices.
Can I Make Mulled Apple Cider Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cider and let it cool completely, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving, adding a splash of cider or water if it’s too concentrated.
How Should I Store Leftover Mulled Cider?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on low to preserve the spices and fresh apple flavor.
Can I Add Alcohol to This Mulled Cider?
Definitely! Adding a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy can make a delicious warm cocktail. Stir it in after heating so you don’t cook off the alcohol.
