Mulled Cider Holiday Drink is the quintessential beverage for cozy gatherings during the fall and winter months. This warm, spiced apple drink is not only delightful but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations. With its aromatic blend of spices, it brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. Let’s dive into the delicious world of mulled cider and discover how to make this festive favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

Here are a few reasons why this holiday spiced cider recipe is a must-try:

It’s warming and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings.
Made from traditional mulled cider ingredients, it’s rich in flavor.
Customizable with various spices and fruits for unique tastes.
Great for both adults and kids, with non-alcoholic mulled cider options.
Easy to prepare in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Enjoy the health benefits of drinking warm cider, like improved digestion.
It’s a delightful alternative to mulled wine, appealing to a broader audience.

Ingredients for Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

Gather these items:

2 quarts fresh apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp whole cloves
1 tsp whole allspice berries
6–10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1/2 piece of whole nutmeg
3 star anise
Optional: sliced apples
Optional: sliced oranges
Optional: brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
Optional: 1.5 oz rum, bourbon, or whiskey per mug (for adult version)

How to Make Mulled Cider Holiday Drink Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pour the apple cider into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
Step 2: Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, cardamom pods, nutmeg, and star anise.
Step 3: Optionally add sliced apples and oranges for extra flavor.
Step 4: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (do not boil).
Step 5: Once steaming, cover and let steep for 15 minutes off the heat.
Step 6: Strain the spices out or use a spice sachet for easy removal.
Step 7: Keep warm for serving or transfer to a slow cooker set on ‘keep warm.’
Step 8: Optional: Add a shot of alcohol per mug for a boozy version.
Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor and aroma.
Experiment with additional spices to create your unique blend.
For a festive mulled cider drink, consider using seasonal fruits.
Prepare your cider in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
Consider making a slow cooker mulled cider recipe for easy serving at parties.

Mulled Cider Holiday Drink: 8 Spiced Warm Delights - Mulled Cider Holiday Drink - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

Here are some suggestions:

Serve in mugs, garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick.
Pair with holiday cookies or sweet treats for a delightful snack.
Offer a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream or caramel drizzle.

How to Store and Reheat Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

To store any leftovers, simply transfer the cider to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until warm. This easy homemade mulled cider can be enjoyed multiple times, making it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mulled Cider Holiday Drink

What’s the secret to perfect Mulled Cider Holiday Drink?

The secret lies in using high-quality fresh apple cider and a balanced mix of spices. This ensures a rich flavor profile that’s both warming and comforting, perfect for the holidays.

Can I make Mulled Cider Holiday Drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mulled cider ahead of time. Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and enjoy!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mulled Cider Holiday Drink?

Avoid boiling the cider, as it can alter the flavor and make it less pleasant. Stick to a gentle simmer for the best results, and always taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.

Variations of Mulled Cider Holiday Drink You Can Try

Here are a few fun variations to consider:

Try adding pomegranate juice for a fruity twist.
Incorporate ginger for a spicier kick.
Experiment with different types of spirits, such as brandy or spiced rum.
Offer non-alcoholic mulled cider options for family-friendly gatherings.

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Mulled Cider Holiday Drink: 8 Spiced Warm Delights

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Mulled cider is a warm, spiced apple drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 quarts fresh apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp whole cloves
1 tsp whole allspice berries
6–10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1/2 piece of whole nutmeg
3 star anise
Optional: sliced apples
Optional: sliced oranges
Optional: brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
Optional: 1.5 oz rum, bourbon, or whiskey per mug (for adult version)

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Instructions

Pour the apple cider into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, cardamom pods, nutmeg, and star anise.
Optionally add sliced apples and oranges for extra flavor.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (do not boil).
Once steaming, cover and let steep for 15 minutes off the heat.
Strain the spices out or use a spice sachet for easy removal.
Keep warm for serving or transfer to a slow cooker set on ‘keep warm.’
Optional: Add a shot of alcohol per mug for a boozy version.
Serve hot, garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.