Mulled Cider Recipe

Name: Mulled Cider
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 quarts fresh apple cider; 1/4 cup (packed) light brown sugar; 2 bay leaves; 2 cinnamon sticks (about 2 inches each); 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg; Zest of 1 orange, peeled in continuous spiral if possible; 1 ounce per serving of rum, brandy, or Calvados (optional); 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 cups (packed) dark brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Servings: persons

2 quarts fresh apple cider
1/4 cup (packed) light brown sugar
2 bay leaves
2 cinnamon sticks (about 2 inches each)
1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
Zest of 1 orange, peeled in continuous spiral if possible
1 ounce per serving of rum, brandy, or Calvados (optional)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups (packed) dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1
Combine the cider, light brown sugar, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and orange zest in a large pan.
2
Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered 30 minutes.
3
Strain the spices from the mixture and discard.
4
Return the cider to pan and keep warm.
5
The cider is ready to be served as is.
6
If spiking it, pour 1 ounce of the preferred liquor into each serving mug and fill with the hot cider.
7
If the cider is to be embellished with the spiced butter, cream the butter and dark brown sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
8
Add the spices and continue beating 1 minute more.
9
Float a heaping teaspoon of the butter on top of each serving of hot cider.
10
Store any leftover butter in the refrigerator for future batches of mulled cider.

832

kcal

Calories

Fat

172

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 quarts fresh apple cider, 1/4 cup (packed) light brown sugar, 2 bay leaves, 2 cinnamon sticks (about 2 inches each), and more.

Yes, Mulled Cider falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Mulled Cider

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions