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Warm Mulled Apple Cider

A comforting, spiced, non-alcoholic apple cider infused with fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and vibrant orange peels. Perfect for warming up on chilly autumn and winter days.

Warm Mulled Apple Cider
Prep 5 min Cook 20 min Total 25 min Level Easy
Serves 4

Ingredients

Main

  • 4 cups Fresh apple cider — Unfiltered and unsweetened if possible
  • 1 inch piece Fresh ginger — Peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 whole Cinnamon sticks — Plus more for garnish
  • 3 whole pods Star anise — Plus more for garnish
  • 1 whole Orange — Peeled in strips (avoiding the bitter white pith)
  • 4 whole Whole cloves (optional) — For extra spice depth
  • 1 tablespoon Maple syrup (optional) — To taste, if the cider is tart

Instructions

  1. Wash the orange and use a vegetable peeler to remove strips of the zest, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith underneath.

    ~2 min
    You can juice the peeled orange and add a splash to the cider for extra citrus flavor, or save it for another use.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, sliced ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, orange peels, and whole cloves (if using).

    ~1 min
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Do not let it come to a rolling boil.

    ~5 min
    Boiling can cause the cider to become cloudy and alter the fresh apple flavor.
  4. Once simmering, reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the saucepan and let the cider steep for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the spices and citrus to infuse fully.

    ~15 min
    Taste the cider halfway through. If you prefer a sweeter drink, stir in the optional maple syrup.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the whole spices and peels, or carefully pour the cider through a fine mesh strainer directly into mugs.

    ~2 min
    Garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick, a star anise pod, or an orange slice before serving.
Nutrition
120
Calories
0
Protein (g)
30
Carbs (g)
0
Fat (g)
0
Sat. Fat (g)
1
Fiber (g)
24
Sugar (g)
10
Sodium (mg)
0
Cholesterol (mg)
Equipment
  • Medium saucepan
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon
  • Ladle
Tips & Storage
  • Use high-quality, unfiltered apple cider rather than clear apple juice for the best texture and depth of flavor.
  • For an adult version, you can stir in an ounce of bourbon, dark rum, or brandy to individual mugs after pouring.
  • If you love a spicy kick, add a pinch of black peppercorns or a dash of cayenne to the pot while simmering.
  • Storage: Allow leftover mulled cider to cool completely. Remove any remaining whole spices to prevent it from becoming bitter, then store in an airtight pitcher or jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
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🤖 This recipe was created with AI assistance. If you spot a mistake or something that doesn't look right, please report it.