Mulled Apple Cider
Ingredients
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- 1 orange orange – peeled into 4 wide strips (avoid white pith)
- 1 ounce fresh ginger – thinly sliced
- 4 sticks cinnamon sticks
- 10 pieces whole cloves
- 8 berries allspice berries
- 2 pods star anise pods
- 8 cups apple cider (unfiltered)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
1. In a large nonreactive pot, combine the apple cider (unfiltered) with 4 wide strips of zest peeled from the orange, the thinly sliced fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, and star anise pods.
2. Bring to a bare simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low, partially cover, and gently simmer until very fragrant, 25–30 minutes; the cider should taste warm and spiced but not bitter.
3. Stir in the maple syrup and simmer 5 minutes more to meld.
4. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher, pressing lightly on the solids; discard the spices and peel.
5. Serve hot in mugs. Keep warm on the lowest heat if holding for service, avoiding a boil to prevent bitterness.
Mulled Apple Cider is a warm, gently spiced drink with bright citrus aromas and a rounded apple sweetness. Whole spices like cinnamon, clove, and allspice infuse the cider with depth, while ginger adds a subtle heat and the orange zest lifts the finish. The result is cozy and aromatic, ideal for cold weather gatherings, holiday tables, and welcoming guests.
The practice of mulling fruit drinks traces to medieval Europe, where wine and ale were scented with spices for warmth and preservation. In North America, abundant apples and fresh, unfiltered cider made a natural base for the same technique, evolving into a staple of autumn harvests and winter holidays. Today, mulled cider bridges Old World spice traditions with American orchard culture, appearing at markets, home parties, and festive celebrations.