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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sweeten the Mixture: Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar thoroughly to dissolve it evenly, enhancing natural sweetness and balancing flavors.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
