12/05/2025
We will be selling apples and cider tomorrow (December 06) at Shirley's from 10-12 and 1-4. Here is a delicious recipe for Mulled Apple Cider or Wassail. This recipe is perfect for filling your kitchen with an incredible scent and tastes much better than the store-bought spice mixes.
Classic Mulled Apple Cider
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20–30 minutes
Yields: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Apple Cider: 2 liters (approx. 8 cups). Tip: Look for fresh, unfiltered apple cider (cloudy) rather than clear apple juice for the best flavor and texture.
Fresh Orange: 1 medium orange, sliced into rounds.
Cinnamon Sticks: 3–4 sticks.
Whole Cloves: 1 teaspoon.
Star Anise: 2 whole stars (optional, but adds a lovely depth).
Sweetener: 1–2 tablespoons of Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar (optional, depending on how sweet your cider is naturally).
Optional Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or 4–5 whole allspice berries.
Instructions
Combine Ingredients: Pour the apple cider into a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add Aromatics: Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. If you are using additional spices like nutmeg or allspice, add them now.
Simmer: Bring the cider to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently.
Note: Do not let it boil vigorously, as this can change the texture of the cider and make it separate.
Steep: Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the spice flavor will be.
Taste and Sweeten: Give it a taste. If you want it sweeter, stir in the maple syrup or brown sugar now until dissolved.
Serve: Ladle into mugs. You can strain out the spices and orange slices if you prefer a clear drink, or leave them in the pot for presentation. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a fresh orange slice.
Variations & Tips
Make it "Spiked" (Adults Only): This recipe is non-alcoholic, but it pairs beautifully with spirits. Add 1–2 ounces of Bourbon, Dark Rum, or Brandy to the bottom of the mug before ladling the hot cider over it.
Slow Cooker Method: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Set on Low for 2–3 hours. This is great for parties as it keeps the cider warm all evening.
Cranberry Twist: Add 1 cup of cranberry juice (unsweetened) to the pot for a tart, festive variation.