Easy Hot Mulled Apple Cider Recipe: The Perfect Cozy Drink for Fall & Winter Holidays

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma and taste of a warm mug of Hot Mulled Apple Cider to instantly transport you to a state of cozy bliss. This delightful beverage, infused with fresh orange and an array of warming spices, and often topped with vibrant fresh cranberries, is truly a festive staple. Imagine curling up with a mug of this spiced cider and a freshly baked cookie – it’s the quintessential experience for the cooler seasons. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or simply looking to fill your house with an incredible scent, this easy recipe for hot mulled cider is an absolute must-try.

The moment the fragrant steam of this drink fills the air, all my worries seem to melt away. No matter how overwhelmed or stressed the day has made me, the enchanting blend of mulling spices, sweet apple cider, and bright orange slices creates an atmosphere of pure heaven. It’s an instant mood booster, and honestly, a far more effective (and delicious) way to make your home smell amazing than any candle could ever be!

Especially when you pair it with some festive holiday baking, the twinkling lights of a beautiful Christmas tree, and those precious moments of puppy snuggles after the baby is finally tucked into bed for the night. This is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that defines the magic of the season, making every moment feel a little more special and serene.

The Simplicity of Scent & Flavor: Why This Mulled Cider Recipe Shines

Could there be a more perfect way to wind down a busy day or kick off a cozy evening? What’s truly remarkable is just how incredibly simple this hot mulled apple cider recipe is to prepare. You literally just combine all the ingredients in a pot, let it gently simmer for about an hour, and voilà! Your home is filled with an irresistible aroma, and a delicious, warming beverage is ready to enjoy. It’s an effortless way to bring warmth and festivity into your home with minimal fuss.

It’s truly that easy – a one-step wonder that delivers maximum impact for taste and aroma!

While many people turn to “simmer pots” during this time of year to infuse their homes with comforting scents, they often use water as the base, adding spices and fruit. I’ve always wondered why! Why settle for just a pleasant scent when you can achieve the same wonderful aroma AND have a delicious, warm drink to savor at the end of it all? This hot mulled apple cider recipe offers the best of both worlds – an aromatic experience that envelops your senses and a delightful, comforting treat for your taste buds.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile and adaptable to various occasions. It’s absolutely fantastic on its own as a wholesome, non-alcoholic option for the whole family. But for adult gatherings, it’s also perfect for spiking with a splash of your favorite rum or bourbon, transforming it into a sophisticated holiday cocktail. Planning a festive gathering? This recipe easily doubles or triples to serve a crowd, making it an ideal choice for your holiday parties, family get-togethers, or even a simple cozy evening with friends.

Other Cozy Warm Drink Recipes to Explore

If you love the comfort of a warm drink, especially as the temperatures drop, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes. They’re perfect for embracing the cozy season!

• Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate – The ultimate easy indulgence for chocolate lovers, perfect for a crowd or a lazy afternoon.
• Boozy Zebra Hot Chocolate – A sophisticated and fun adult twist on classic hot chocolate, combining dark and white chocolate with a hint of spirit.
• Spiced Ale Flip – An intriguing and flavorful spiced beer cocktail that offers a unique warming experience for adventurous palates.
• Hot Orange Mocha Cocktail – A delightful blend of rich coffee, decadent chocolate, and bright citrus notes, creating a surprisingly harmonious and comforting drink.

This Recipe’s Must-Haves: Essential Equipment for Mulled Cider

Preparing this comforting hot mulled apple cider is delightfully straightforward, requiring only a few basic kitchen tools that you likely already own. The most crucial piece of equipment you’ll need is a large, sturdy stockpot or a Dutch oven. This will be where all the magical mingling of flavors happens on your stovetop. A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heating and prevents scorching, allowing your cider to simmer perfectly and infuse thoroughly without burning.

Once your mulled cider is ready, the fun begins with serving! You can pour it into your favorite festive mugs. While the beautiful mugs featured in these photos (originally from Target) may no longer be available, any cherished mug will do. For added elegance and to showcase the beautiful amber color of the cider and its vibrant garnishes, consider using heatproof glass mugs. Beyond the pot and mugs, a good cutting board and a sharp knife will be helpful for slicing the orange and preparing any additional garnishes.

Let’s Make Hot Mulled Apple Cider! A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

The Simmering Process & Garnish Ideas

The beauty of this hot mulled cider recipe lies in its incredible simplicity, truly making it a one-step wonder. Begin by gathering all your ingredients: your gallon of apple cider, the thinly sliced orange, and your medley of warming spices including allspice berries, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Combine all these delightful elements into your chosen large pot or Dutch oven. Place it over low heat on your stovetop.

Allow the mixture to gently simmer for approximately one hour. The key here is a gentle simmer, characterized by tiny bubbles just appearing at the edges of the pot, rather than a rolling boil. A vigorous boil can cause the flavors of the spices to become bitter or too concentrated, and it can also lead to excessive evaporation of the delicious cider. Stir the mixture occasionally, perhaps once or twice throughout the hour, just to ensure the spices are evenly infusing the cider and that no sediment is sticking to the bottom of the pot. This hour-long simmer is crucial for allowing the spices to fully release their aromatic oils and blend beautifully with the naturally sweet and tangy apple and bright orange flavors, transforming simple cider into a complex, comforting beverage.

Once your hot mulled cider has achieved its aromatic perfection, it’s time to garnish and serve! I absolutely love to garnish my mulled cider with a handful of fresh cranberries. Their vibrant red color provides a beautiful visual contrast against the deep amber of the cider, and their tartness offers a lovely burst of flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and spicy notes. You can also pluck a slice of orange directly from the pot and use a fresh cinnamon stick for an elegant and fragrant touch. For an extra touch of festivity, consider adding a few whole star anise pods back into the mugs, or even a thin slice of a fresh apple for added texture and apple flavor. These simple garnishes elevate the entire experience, making each mug a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Need some more inspiration for winter recipes? Check out my winter recipes page!

Can I Make Hot Mulled Apple Cider Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, this hot mulled apple cider is an excellent candidate for making ahead, especially if you’re planning a party or anticipating a busy schedule! While its incredible, heartwarming aroma is best enjoyed fresh, wafting through your home as it simmers, preparing it in advance is a perfectly viable and convenient option if you’re pressed for time or want to streamline your holiday preparations.

To make it ahead, simply follow the recipe instructions for simmering the cider and spices. Once the hour is up and the flavors have fully infused, remove the pot from the heat. It’s important to then carefully strain out all the solid ingredients – the orange slices, allspice berries, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. This crucial step prevents the spices from continuing to steep and potentially making the cider taste too overpowering or even bitter over time. Allow the mulled cider to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can then be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic and convenient option for holiday entertaining.

When you’re ready to serve your pre-made mulled cider, reheating is an absolute breeze. You can gently warm the entire batch in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat until it’s steaming, fragrant, and perfectly hot once more. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, if you only need a single serving or two, simply pour the desired amount into microwave-safe mugs and heat for about 1 to 2 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave, until it’s perfectly warm and ready to enjoy.

I love nothing more than enjoying a mug of this delicious mulled cider, perhaps paired with some delightful apple cider donut muffins, on a crisp autumn or cold winter morning. It’s the ideal way to start your day with warmth, comfort, and a touch of seasonal magic, especially when you’ve prepared it in advance for ultimate convenience.

Can Hot Mulled Apple Cider Be Made in a Slow Cooker? Absolutely!

Yes, absolutely! Making hot mulled apple cider in a slow cooker is not only possible but often preferred for large gatherings, parties, and extended enjoyment. It’s a fantastic hands-off method that keeps your cider warm and wonderfully fragrant for hours on end, allowing your guests to serve themselves whenever they wish without you having to constantly monitor a pot on the stove.

To prepare it in your slow cooker, simply add all the ingredients – the full gallon of apple cider, your thinly sliced orange, and your medley of whole spices (allspice berries, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks) – directly into the slow cooker insert. Set your slow cooker to the ‘Low’ setting and let it cook for approximately 3 hours. This extended, gentle heating period is perfect for allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and fully develop, creating a rich and aromatic cider.

Once the 3 hours are up, your mulled cider is ready to serve! The best part about using a slow cooker is its ability to maintain a consistent warm temperature. You can then switch your slow cooker to the ‘Warm’ setting, and it will keep the cider at a perfect serving temperature throughout your entire event or for several hours. This means less work for you, as you won’t need to constantly reheat, and a continuous supply of delicious, warm spiced cider for everyone to enjoy. It’s a true game-changer for entertaining during the chilly seasons, ensuring your guests always have a comforting drink in hand.

What Booze Should I Add to Hot Mulled Apple Cider? Spirited Twists!

While wonderfully delicious and comforting on its own, hot mulled apple cider readily welcomes a spirited addition for an adult-friendly beverage. The warming spices and naturally sweet apple base provide a perfect canvas for a variety of liquors, allowing for customized flavor profiles. My top recommendations for spiking mulled cider are **rum** and **bourbon** due to their complementary warm, caramel, and vanilla notes that harmonize beautifully with the cider and spices.

If you’re making a full batch boozy to serve at a party, I suggest adding about 1/2 cup of dark rum and 1/2 cup of bourbon to the pot after the cider has finished simmering. This allows the alcohol to warm gently without evaporating too quickly, preserving its flavor profile and integrating it smoothly into the cider. For individual servings, guests can easily customize their mugs by adding up to 2 ounces of their preferred spirit directly into their cup. Again, rum and bourbon are fantastic choices, but don’t shy away from experimenting with other options like:

• Brandy or Apple Brandy: These spirits enhance the natural apple notes of the cider and add a sophisticated, fruity depth.
• Spiced Rum: If you love a double dose of warmth and spice, spiced rum is an excellent choice that amplifies the existing flavors.
• Whiskey (Irish or Scotch): For those who prefer a smokier or richer undertone, a good quality Irish whiskey or a light Scotch can add an intriguing layer of complexity.
• Fireball Cinnamon Whisky: If you love a bold, fiery cinnamon kick, Fireball is a fun and intense choice that will certainly make your mulled cider stand out. In fact, if you’re a true fan of strong cinnamon flavors, you might also enjoy this fireball apple cider recipe for a truly unique and potent twist!

Remember to always add alcohol just before serving or directly to individual mugs, especially if you’re keeping a batch warm for a long time. This approach ensures the alcohol doesn’t cook off and allows you to cater to both adult drinkers and those who prefer a non-alcoholic version from the same batch.

Tips for the Perfect Mulled Cider Batch

Achieving that truly exceptional mug of hot mulled apple cider goes beyond just following the basic recipe steps. Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure your batch is absolutely perfect, aromatic, and delicious every single time:

• Use Quality Cider: The foundation of this entire drink is the apple cider itself. Opt for a good quality, unfiltered apple cider for the best and most authentic flavor. Avoid clear apple juice, as it lacks the depth, complexity, and slight tartness of true cider, which are essential for a robust mulled beverage. Freshly pressed cider from a local orchard is ideal if you can get your hands on it!
• Don’t Boil: This is a crucial tip. A gentle simmer is absolutely necessary. Boiling the cider vigorously can cause the flavors of the spices to become bitter or too concentrated, and it can also degrade the delicate apple notes, resulting in a less pleasant taste. Keep the heat low and watch for small, infrequent bubbles around the edges of the pot, not a rapid, rolling boil.
• Spice Bags for Easy Cleanup: If you prefer not to have whole spices (like allspice berries, cloves, and star anise) floating freely in your cider, consider placing them in a reusable muslin spice bag or tying them tightly in a cheesecloth sachet with kitchen twine. This makes for super easy straining and serving, as you can simply lift out the bag when the cider is done infusing.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The inherent sweetness of apple cider can vary significantly depending on the apples used and whether it’s commercially produced or from an orchard. Taste your cider after it has simmered for about 30-40 minutes. If you prefer it sweeter, you can easily add a tablespoon or two of brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey. Stir until completely dissolved and continue simmering for the remaining time.
• Fresh Orange is Key: While dried orange peel can work in a pinch for its aromatic qualities, fresh orange slices contribute a brighter, more vibrant, and undeniably aromatic citrus note that truly elevates the mulled cider. The oils from the fresh peel are essential for that signature zesty undertone. Don’t skip it if possible!
• Extended Simmer for Deeper Flavor: While an hour is usually sufficient for a fantastic infusion, if you have the time and desire an even deeper, more complex infusion of spice, you can let it simmer for up to 2-3 hours on very low heat. Just be sure to keep an eye on the liquid level, as some evaporation will occur, and add a splash more cider (or a little water) if it starts to reduce too much.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions for Your Mulled Cider

Hot mulled apple cider is a versatile and beloved drink that fits perfectly into almost any fall or winter occasion, from casual family evenings to elegant holiday parties. Here’s how to serve it and what to pair it with to make the most of this delightful beverage:

Serving Ideas:

• Festive Mugs: Always serve your mulled cider in your favorite insulated mugs or heatproof glasses. These not only keep the drink warm for longer but also beautifully showcase its rich, amber color and any thoughtful garnishes you’ve added.
• Garnish Galore: While fresh cranberries, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks are classic, don’t limit yourself! Consider these creative garnishes:
  • Thin apple slices (fresh or dried) floated on top
  • Additional whole star anise pods for visual appeal and a subtle licorice aroma
  • A dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a dessert-like treat
  • A sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for an unexpected, sophisticated herbal note
  • Elegant orange peel “twists” or strips for an extra burst of citrus aroma.
• Buffet Style for Parties: For larger gatherings, keep the mulled cider warm in a slow cooker (as discussed above) or a stylish thermos carafe. This allows guests to serve themselves at their leisure. Provide a small bowl of various garnishes alongside for them to customize their drinks.

Perfect Pairings:

Mulled cider pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of sweet and savory treats, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, brunch, or simply a cozy night in.

• Baked Goods & Desserts:
  • Classic sugar cookies, warm gingerbread cookies, or soft snickerdoodles are a match made in heaven.
  • Any apple-based dessert, such as apple pie, apple crumble, or apple turnover, will beautifully complement the cider.
  • Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or even a simple carrot cake can be elevated by the spiced notes of the cider.
  • Warm cinnamon rolls, sticky buns, or even plain donuts (especially apple cider donuts!) are delightful alongside.
• Savory Snacks:
  • A festive cheese board featuring aged cheddar, gouda, or creamy brie, complemented by fresh apple slices, grapes, and roasted nuts, pairs surprisingly well.
  • Warm roasted nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) offer a simple, satisfying crunch.
  • Mini quiches, savory tarts, or even small sausage rolls can make for an excellent brunch pairing.
• Holiday Meals: Served either non-alcoholic or with a spirited kick, mulled cider makes a fantastic beverage option to serve alongside traditional holiday meals featuring roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a hearty vegetarian roast. Its warming spices complement rich, savory flavors beautifully.

No matter how you choose to serve and enjoy it, this hot mulled apple cider is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home for years to come, bringing warmth, comfort, and festive cheer to every occasion.

Hot Mulled Apple Cider

This delightful warm beverage, infused with fragrant spices and fresh orange, is the ultimate cozy drink for chilly nights and festive gatherings. Perfectly easy to make and wonderful for sharing!

Cook Time: 1 hour hr

Total Time: 1 hour hr

5 from 1 vote

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Equipment

• Utility Cutting Board
• Wusthof Knife Set
• Dutch Oven
• Instant Pot DUO (for Slow Cooker function)
• Large Covered Stockpot

Ingredients

• 1 large orange thinly sliced (preferably organic, as the peel is used)
• 10 whole allspice berries
• 10 whole cloves
• 3 star anise pods
• 5 cinnamon sticks (plus more for garnish, if desired)
• 1 gallon apple cider (unfiltered for best, most robust flavor)
• Optional Garnish: fresh orange slices, whole cranberries, extra cinnamon sticks, or thin apple slices.

Instructions

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the thinly sliced orange, whole allspice berries, whole cloves, star anise pods, cinnamon sticks, and the entire gallon of apple cider.
• Place the pot over low heat on your stovetop and bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer. Do not allow it to boil vigorously. Let it simmer gently for approximately 1 hour. Stir occasionally (about 1 to 2 times total) throughout the simmering process to ensure even flavor infusion and prevent spices from settling at the bottom.
• Once infused, you can either carefully remove the whole spices and orange slices for a smoother drink or leave them in the pot for continuous flavor and aesthetic appeal. Ladle the hot mulled cider into individual mugs, garnish with fresh orange slices, whole cranberries, or extra cinnamon sticks as desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your deliciously cozy beverage!

Notes

Slow Cooker Instructions: For a convenient, hands-off approach, add all ingredients (orange, spices, and apple cider) directly into your slow cooker insert. Cook on the ‘Low’ setting for 3 hours, stirring occasionally after the first hour. Once ready, switch to the ‘Warm’ setting to keep it hot and fragrant for serving throughout your gathering. Note that many Instant Pot models have a slow cooker function (use ‘Normal’ or ‘Low’ depending on your specific model), which works perfectly here.

Adding Alcohol (Boozy Version): To make the entire batch of mulled cider boozy, stir in 1/2 cup dark rum and 1/2 cup bourbon after the simmering process is complete and just before serving. This ensures the alcohol warms without cooking off. For individual servings, guests can add up to 2 ounces of their favorite spirit (such as rum, bourbon, or brandy) directly into their mug. This allows you to offer both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options from the same delicious batch.

Make Ahead & Reheating: Prepare the cider as instructed in the main recipe, then carefully strain out all solid ingredients (spices and orange slices). Let it cool completely to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the desired amount in a pot on the stove over low heat until steaming, or warm individual mugs in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Cuisine: American, Seasonal

Category: Beverage, Non-Alcoholic, Cocktail, Winter Drink, Holiday Drink