Ingredients
1 gallon (4 liters) apple cider: Choose unfiltered or fresh-squeezed for the best flavor.
2 oranges: Sliced or quartered (include the peel for extra citrus)
Spices
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 2 teaspoons whole allspice berries
- 3-4 star anise pods (optional, but adds a beautiful note)
Sweetener (optional)
- ¼ – ½ cup brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey (add to taste)
Garnishes (optional)
- Additional orange slices
- Fresh cranberries
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and star anise (if using). If you’d like to add a sweetener, do so now.
2. Simmer Gently: Place the pot over medium-low heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
3. Infuse the Flavors: Reduce heat to the lowest setting and simmer for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to several hours for a deeper flavor infusion. The longer it simmers, the more intense the spices will become.
4. Strain: Remove the pot from heat. Using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, carefully strain out the orange slices and spices.
5. Serve Warm: Ladle your delicious mulled apple cider into mugs. Garnish with orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Tips and Variations
Make it a “Boozy” Cider: For an adults-only treat, add a splash of your favorite liquor – bourbon, brandy, or dark rum work beautifully.
Slow Cooker Option: Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
Consider a Spice Bag: For easy removal, tie your cloves, allspice, and star anise in a piece of cheesecloth to make a spice bag.
