Lisa Yarde
Begin your culinary experience by indulging in a soothing and gratifying apple cider, meticulously crafted in the comfort of your own home. Acquire knowledge regarding the process of preparing mulled apple cider using both the cooktop and slow cooker methods. This comprehensive apple cider recipe incorporates valuable recommendations for selecting mulling spices and preparing alcoholic spiked mulled apple cider. The delectable spiced cider represents the epitome of a seasonal beverage during the autumn months, making it an excellent choice for a large gathering.
What is mulled apple cider?
The olfactory profile of homemade apple cider is highly pleasant, emanating a delightful aroma, while simultaneously offering a rich amalgamation of autumnal tastes that are personally preferred. However, could you please clarify the definition and process of mulling cider? The process of creating a mulled drink involves the infusion of various spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, into a chosen beverage, such as apple cider, wassail, or mulled wine. The gradual heating of the spices in the process of simmering facilitates the release of their aromatic compounds, so imparting distinctive character and flavor to this particular recipe for mulled cider.
For those who may be curious, this particular recipe for homemade mulled apple cider is suitable for a vegan diet, naturally free from gluten, compatible with the paleo diet, and does not contain processed sugar. Indeed, the cider formula is devoid of any additional sugar.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider or apple juice
- 1 organic orange, cut into slices
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 7 whole cloves
- 3 allspice berries
- 3 cardamom pods
Instructions
Stovetop apple cider
- Pour the cider into a large heavy-bottom saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Add the orange slices and spices.
- Cover with a lid and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Taste and optionally sweeten or spike with a liquor of choice.
Slow Cooker/ Crock pot Apple Cider
- Add all ingredients (except liquor if using any) into a slow cooker or crock pot.
- Cover with a lid and cook on low for 2 to 4 hours.
- Optionally, spike the mulled cider with a liquor of choice and sweeten if necessary.
Notes
How long can you keep mulled cider?
Leftover mulled cider can be stored in an airtight bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Can mulled cider be reheated?
Yes, mulled cider can be reheated. Reheat apple cider in a heavy bottom saucepan over medium-high flame until boiling. Take off the heat and wait until cool enough to drink.How to sweeten hot spiced apple cider
Apple cider can be quite sweet. So, it’s best to cook the cider first and do a taste test before adding a sweetener. Otherwise, you may think that the apple cider is too sweet! 1/4 cup / 50 g / 1.8 oz maple syrup, maple sugar or coconut sugar are natural ways to sweeten apple cider. Brown sugar or regular granulated sugar are fine as well. Maple syrup can simply be stirred into the cider. If using a granulated sweetener, let the cider simmer a little longer, until the sugar has dissolved.How to spike apple cider
For a tasty alcoholic cider recipe, add brandy, apple brandy, calvados, rum, or spiced rum to this easy apple cider recipe. The fruity apple flavour would also pair well with rye whiskey, bourbon, and tequila. To make a spiked mulled apple cider, start with 1/2 cup / 120 ml / 4 fl oz alcohol of choice. You can always add more and adjust the alcoholic mulled cider to your taste.
