Description
This easy mulled cider recipe combines hard cider, apple juice, Calvados, and warming spices to create a comforting and fragrant beverage perfect for cozy gatherings. Infused with citrus zest, mulled fruit tea, and sweetened with brown sugar, it’s quick to prepare and delicious served warm with fresh fruit garnishes.
Ingredients
Mulled Cider
- 1 litre (1.75 pints) hard cider
- 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) apple juice
- 4 tbsp Calvados (apple brandy)
- 8 tbsp light brown sugar
- Zest of 1 orange, peeled into thick strips
- 3 mulled fruit teabags
Garnishes
- Thin slices of unpeeled clementines
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the hard cider, apple juice, Calvados, light brown sugar, orange zest strips, and mulled fruit teabags to a large pan.
- Heat and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Remove Infusions: Carefully remove the mulled fruit teabags and orange zest strips from the pan to prevent overbitterness.
- Keep Warm or Serve: Serve the mulled cider immediately hot, or keep it warm over low heat if not serving right away.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle into cups and top each serving with thin slices of clementines and fresh cranberries for a festive presentation and added flavor.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste, depending on how sweet you prefer your mulled cider.
- If Calvados is unavailable, you can substitute with another apple brandy or a mild whisky.
- Mulled fruit teabags typically include spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg—avoid opening the bags to keep the drink clear.
- Do not boil vigorously after adding the alcohol to prevent evaporation of flavors.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the Calvados and increase the apple juice slightly.
