If you’re looking for a warm and festive drink to enjoy during the holiday season, look no further than this spiked mulled apple cider recipe. This cozy beverage combines the flavors of fresh apple cider, warm spices, and a touch of booze to create a delicious and comforting drink that is perfect for sipping by the fire.
To make this spiked mulled apple cider, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange zest, bourbon, and brown sugar. The process is simple: combine all the ingredients in a large pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, strain the cider to remove the spices and pour it into mugs. Serve it warm and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra festive touch.
This spiked mulled apple cider is the perfect drink to serve at holiday parties or enjoy on a cozy night in. It has the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, and the addition of bourbon adds a subtle warmth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab a mug, snuggle up, and savor the flavors of the season with this delicious spiked mulled apple cider.
Ingredients
- Apple cider: The star of the show, apple cider provides a sweet and fruity base for your mulled cider recipe. Look for a high-quality, preferably freshly pressed cider for the best results.
- Spices: A mixture of warm spices is essential for creating the signature flavor of mulled apple cider. Common spices include cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and nutmeg. These spices will infuse the cider with a cozy and aromatic taste.
- Oranges: Oranges add a bright and citrusy note to the mulled cider. You’ll need a few sliced oranges to enhance the flavor profile and provide a refreshing twist.
- Liquor: To spike your cider and add an extra kick, you can choose from a variety of liquors. Popular options include bourbon, rum, or brandy. The choice of liquor will depend on your personal preference and the flavor profile you want to achieve.
- Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness, you can add honey or maple syrup. This natural sweetener will balance out the spices and enhance the overall taste of the mulled cider.
These are the main ingredients you’ll need to create a delicious spiked mulled apple cider. However, feel free to experiment and add your own twist to the recipe. You can also garnish your cider with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or apple slices for a visually appealing presentation.
Instructions
To make the spiked mulled apple cider recipe, follow these simple steps:
- Gather the ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Apple cider | 1 gallon |
| Oranges | 2 |
| Cloves | 10 |
| Cinnamon sticks | 3 |
| Nutmeg | 1 teaspoon |
| Rum | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
- Prepare the ingredients:
Peel the oranges and insert the cloves into the oranges. This will create a fragrant garnish for the cider. Set aside.
- Combine the ingredients:
In a large pot, pour in the apple cider. Add the cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture well to ensure the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the cloves and oranges:
Gently place the cloves-filled oranges into the pot with the cider. This will infuse the cider with a spicy aroma and flavor.
- Simmer the cider:
Place the pot of cider on the stove over low heat. Allow the cider to simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the rum:
Pour in the rum and stir it into the cider. The rum will add a boozy kick to the drink and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Serve and enjoy:
Once the cider is heated through and the flavors have combined, it is ready to be served. Ladle the cider into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Enjoy the warm, spiced goodness of spiked mulled apple cider!
Spiced Rum Mulled Apple Cider
To make a spiced rum mulled apple cider, start by heating apple cider in a pot over medium heat. Add in a combination of spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to infuse the cider with their warm and aromatic flavors. Let the cider simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse.
Once the cider is infused with the spices, it’s time to add the rum. The spiced rum adds a depth of flavor and warmth to the cider, making it the perfect addition to this cozy drink. Depending on your preference, you can add anywhere from a splash to a generous amount of rum to your cider. Stir well to combine the flavors.
To serve the spiced rum mulled apple cider, pour it into mugs or heat-safe glasses. For an extra special touch, garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple. The warm, fragrant aroma of the cider combined with the flavors of the spices and rum will create a drink that is both comforting and festive.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to warm up on a chilly evening, a spiced rum mulled apple cider is a drink that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm, cozy, and flavorful. So gather your ingredients, heat up a pot of cider, and enjoy this delicious drink all season long.
