Can you use ground spices in mulled cider?

It’s not recommended. Ground spices can leave your cider with a gritty, sandy texture. Instead, always use whole spices like cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries. You can wrap them in cheesecloth or a spice sachet to keep cleanup easy.

Can you make mulled cider ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare mulled cider up to 2 days in advance . Let it cool, strain out the spices, and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Avoid boiling during reheating.

What alcohol goes best in mulled cider?

The most popular choices include: Dark rum for sweet and mellow notes Bourbon for a smoky vanilla flavor Spiced whiskey for extra warmth Add one shot per mug or stir a larger amount into the batch just before serving. Be sure not to simmer after adding alcohol to retain its punch.

How long does mulled cider last in the fridge?

Mulled cider lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to strain the spices out first to avoid bitterness. Store it in a tightly sealed container and reheat gently before serving.

Mulled Cider: The Best Cozy Fall Drink Recipe (2025 Edition)

Name: Mulled Cider
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 quarts fresh apple cider; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 tsp whole cloves; 1 tsp whole allspice berries; 6–10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed; 1/2 piece of whole nutmeg; 3 star anise; Optional: sliced apples; Optional: sliced oranges; Optional: brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey (to taste); Optional: 1.5 oz rum, bourbon, or whiskey per mug (for adult version)

Mulled Cider

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Mulled cider is a warm, spiced apple drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Made with fresh apple cider and whole spices, it’s easy to prepare on the stove or in a slow cooker and customizable for any crowd.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 quarts fresh apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp whole cloves
1 tsp whole allspice berries
6–10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1/2 piece of whole nutmeg
3 star anise
Optional: sliced apples
Optional: sliced oranges
Optional: brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
Optional: 1.5 oz rum, bourbon, or whiskey per mug (for adult version)

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Instructions

Pour the apple cider into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, cardamom pods, nutmeg, and star anise.
Optionally add sliced apples and oranges for extra flavor.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (do not boil).
Once steaming, cover and let steep for 15 minutes off the heat.
Strain the spices out or use a spice sachet for easy removal.
Keep warm for serving or transfer to a slow cooker set on ‘keep warm.’
Optional: Add a shot of alcohol per mug for a boozy version.
Serve hot, garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.

Notes

Do not use ground spices as they create a gritty texture.
Avoid boiling to maintain the natural sweetness and flavor.
Wrap spices in cheesecloth for easy cleanup.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days; strain before storing.
Mulled cider can be sweetened to taste or spiked with alcohol.

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/mulled-cider-holiday-drink-recipe/