Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider: Tart and Spicy Holiday Drink

Introduction

The first time I made Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider, I was hosting a cozy winter gathering and wanted a drink that would fill the house with warm, festive aromas. I combined the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apple cider and a mix of holiday spices. As the mixture simmered, the scent of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus wafted through the air, and guests were immediately drawn to the pot on the stove. It was a hit—a drink that tasted like holiday magic in a mug.

Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider is the perfect beverage for cold weather and holiday celebrations. It’s tart, sweet, and spiced to perfection, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or simply enjoying by the fire. The addition of fresh cranberries and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves creates a drink that’s as comforting as it is festive.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make this tart and spicy cider, explore creative variations, and share tips to ensure it’s always flavorful and aromatic. Let’s mull over this holiday classic!

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Why You’ll Love Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider

Tart and Spicy

The tangy cranberry pairs beautifully with the warming spices for a bold, festive flavor.

Cozy and Comforting

Perfect for chilly days, it warms you up from the inside out.

Festive and Aromatic

The spices and citrus fill your home with the unmistakable scent of the holidays.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider

Core Ingredients

• Apple Cider: Provides a sweet, comforting base.
• Cranberry Juice: Adds a tart, festive twist.
• Fresh Cranberries: Enhance the flavor and add visual appeal.
• Cinnamon Sticks: A classic mulling spice for warmth.
• Whole Cloves: Provide depth and a distinctive holiday aroma.
• Star Anise: Optional, but adds a licorice-like note.
• Orange Slices: Bring a citrusy brightness.
• Sweetener (Optional): Honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup to taste.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider

1. Combine the Ingredients

• In a large pot, combine:
  • 4 cups of apple cider
  • 2 cups of cranberry juice
  • 1 cup of fresh cranberries
  • 2–3 cinnamon sticks
  • 4–5 whole cloves
  • 1–2 star anise pods (optional)
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced.

2. Simmer the Cider

• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
• Let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.

3. Sweeten and Strain

• Taste the cider and add sweetener if desired. Start with 1–2 tablespoons of honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup, and adjust to taste.
• Strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove the spices and cranberries, or leave them in for a rustic look.

4. Serve Hot

• Ladle the cider into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of orange, or a few floating cranberries for a festive touch.

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Creative Variations of Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider

Spiked Cranberry Cider

Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or spiced whiskey for an adult-friendly twist.

Ginger-Spiced Cider

Include a few slices of fresh ginger for an extra warming kick.

Mulled Cranberry-Apple Blend

Use half cranberry juice and half pomegranate juice for a deeper, fruity flavor.

Vanilla Cranberry Cider

Add a splash of vanilla extract or a vanilla bean while simmering for a smooth, sweet flavor.

Chilled Mulled Cider

Let the cider cool, then serve it over ice for a refreshing holiday drink.

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Picture Gallery

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Tips for Making the Best Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh apple cider and cranberry juice (not from concentrate) provide the best flavor.
• Don’t Over-Simmer: Simmer gently to avoid boiling off the flavors of the spices and juices.
• Customize the Spices: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste—more cinnamon for warmth or more cloves for a bolder flavor.
• Keep It Warm: Serve the cider from a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting to keep it hot throughout your gathering.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh cranberries, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks make for a festive and visually appealing presentation.

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Conclusion

Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider is the ultimate holiday drink for warming up and spreading festive cheer. Its bold, tart flavors and aromatic spices create a cozy, comforting experience that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to quiet nights by the fire.

What I love most about this cider is how versatile it is. You can make it family-friendly or add a little splash of spirits for the adults. It’s a drink that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

So why not simmer a pot of Hot Mulled Cranberry Cider today? It’s tart, spicy, and sure to fill your home with the delightful scents and flavors of the season. Cheers to holiday warmth and festive sips!

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FAQ

Can I make this cider in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours. Keep it on the “warm” setting for serving.

How do I store leftover cider?

Let the cider cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I reheat mulled cider?

Absolutely! Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.

What’s the best alcohol to add to this cider?

Rum, bourbon, or spiced whiskey complement the flavors beautifully. Add just before serving to taste.

Can I make this cider sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup to taste. Adjust gradually to avoid over-sweetening.