The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider Recipe

Introduction

Mulled apple cider is a cozy, aromatic drink perfect for chilly days and holiday gatherings. This version combines fresh apples, warm spices, and a hint of citrus to create a festive beverage that’s sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 Granny Smith apples, diced
• 1 orange, rind peeled in large pieces
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 5-7 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup apple brandy or regular brandy (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the apple cider into a large pot and place it over medium-high heat to warm it up.
2. Step 2: Dice the Granny Smith apples into small pieces and add them to the warming cider to infuse fresh apple flavor.
3. Step 3: Peel the rind off the orange in large pieces, avoiding the bitter white pith, and add the peel to the pot for a citrus aroma.
4. Step 4: Add the allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries to the pot for warmth and color.
5. Step 5: Stir in the 1/2 cup of sugar thoroughly to dissolve it evenly and enhance sweetness.
6. Step 6: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour to develop flavors.
7. Step 7: If using brandy, stir it in now and simmer the cider for an additional 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Step 8: Ladle the mulled cider into mugs and serve warm for a comforting seasonal treat.

Tips & Variations

• Use a slow cooker to keep the cider warm throughout the party without boiling off the flavors.
• Swap out Granny Smith apples for sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a different sweetness level.
• For a non-alcoholic version, omit the brandy and add a splash of apple juice concentrate for extra depth.
• Add a few cloves or star anise for an additional layer of spice complexity.

Storage

Store leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling when reheating to preserve the flavors.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mulled cider a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight.

Is the brandy necessary?

No, the brandy is optional and can be omitted for a family-friendly, non-alcoholic version. The cider will still be flavorful and aromatic without it.

The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 71 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up your gatherings with The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider—a cozy and festive beverage infused with fresh apples, citrus, warm spices, and a splash of brandy for an optional spirited kick. Perfect for chilly evenings, this aromatic cider simmers gently to develop rich flavors that will delight your senses and invite comfort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mulled Apple Cider Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 Granny Smith apples, diced
• 1 orange, rind peeled in large pieces
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 5–7 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup apple brandy or regular brandy (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the Apple Cider: Pour the apple cider into a large pot and place it over medium-high heat to start warming the base for your mulled cider.
2. Add the Apples: Dice the Granny Smith apples into small pieces and toss them into the warming cider to infuse it with fresh apple flavor.
3. Prepare and Add Orange Peel: Peel the rind off the orange in large pieces, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith, then add the peel pieces to the pot for a citrusy, aromatic note.
4. Add Spices and Cranberries: Add the allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries to the pot, which contribute warm, festive spice notes and a pop of color.
5. Sweeten the Mixture: Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar thoroughly to dissolve it evenly, enhancing natural sweetness and balancing flavors.
6. Simmer the Cider: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing all flavors to fully develop and meld.
7. Add Brandy and Final Simmer: If using brandy, stir it in now and let the cider simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors together beautifully.
8. Serve Warm: Ladle the mulled cider into mugs or cups and serve warm for a comforting and aromatic seasonal treat.

Notes

• You can omit the brandy for a family-friendly, non-alcoholic version that’s just as flavorful.
• For added decoration, garnish mugs with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple or orange.
• Simmering too long could reduce volume; keep the heat low and monitor occasionally.
• If you prefer a thicker cider, you can mash some of the cooked apples before serving.
• This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, making a large batch to share easily.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mulled apple cider, warm apple cider, holiday drinks, festive beverage, The Pioneer Woman recipes, spiced cider, apple brandy cider