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Mulled Cider in an irish coffee glass with orange slice and fresh cranberries (optional) (AI-generated image)
AI-generated image
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Mulled Cider

A big, cozy pot of apple cider slowly infused with toasted cinnamon, cloves, allspice, star anise and nutmeg. Alcohol-free as written, with an easy rum upgrade for adults, and it makes the whole house smell like fall.

Time
65 min
Difficulty
Easy
Method
Built in glass
Glass
Irish coffee glass

Ingredients

Servings

Amounts below make 8 servings (the full recipe).

  • Apple cider — ½ gallon8 cups (64 oz)
  • Cinnamon sticks4
  • Whole cloves10
  • Allspice berries10
  • Star anise2
  • Whole nutmeg1

Garnish: Orange slice (8 slices), Fresh cranberries (optional)

Batching tip: mix everything except ice up to a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. Pour over fresh ice to serve.

How to make it

  1. 1

    Put the nutmeg, allspice, cloves, star anise and cinnamon sticks in a large pot and toast over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until fragrant.

  2. 2

    Turn the heat to low and pour in the cider.

  3. 3

    Keep it just below a simmer, barely steaming, for 1 hour. Don't let it boil.

  4. 4

    Strain out the spices (or ladle around them) and serve warm in mugs.

Swap it: Slow cooker or Instant Pot: toast the spices in a skillet, then cook everything on low for 3 hours (or the Instant Pot's slow-cook setting). Adults-only version: stir ¼ cup rum into the pot at the end, or add about ½ oz rum to individual mugs so the batch stays alcohol-free. Make ahead: strain and refrigerate up to 3 days, then gently rewarm. The recipe doubles easily.

Bar gear

Equipment for this drink

Tools you'll need

  • JiggerA double-sided measure so every drink comes out the same. Look for one marked in ½ and ¼ oz.
  • Bar spoonA long, thin spoon for stirring, layering and fishing out cherries.
  • Punch bowl & ladleLets guests serve themselves from a big batch.

Recommended glassware

  • Irish coffee glassA heat-safe stemmed mug for hot drinks and toddies.

No shaker? A clean jar with a tight lid works. Build your home bar →

Recipe source: A Couple Cooks — Mulled Cider. Quantities and basic method are factual. Description and steps are original Mixistry copy. Last updated 2026-10-11.

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