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–+ servings
Non-Alcoholic Mulled Cider 1

Warming Non-Alcoholic Mulled Cider

This family-friendly spiced apple cider brings together warming tradition without alcohol, making it the perfect inclusive beverage for gatherings. The carefully balanced blend of aromatic spices creates a sensory experience that embodies the essence of comfort and celebration.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Beverages
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Slow Cooker
  • Cheesecloth
  • Kitchen Twine
  • Ladle
  • Heat-Resistant Mugs

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 gallon apple cider or unfiltered apple juice fresh
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries
  • 1 tablespoon star anise pods about 2-3 pods
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey optional, for added sweetness
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

For Garnish

  • Additional cinnamon sticks
  • Orange slices

Instructions
 

  • Create a small bundle with your whole spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and star anise) by wrapping them in a piece of cheesecloth and tying with kitchen twine. This makes removal easier later.
  • Pour the apple cider into a large pot or slow cooker. Add your spice bundle, sliced orange, ginger, and freshly grated nutmeg.
  • Warm the mixture over medium-low heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. NEVER boil your cider - this can make it taste bitter. The ideal temperature is between 160-170°F (71-77°C).
  • Once your cider reaches the proper temperature, reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30-45 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the spice flavor becomes.
  • After 30 minutes of simmering, taste your cider. If you'd like more sweetness, now is the time to add your maple syrup or honey.
  • Remove the spice bundle and ginger slices before serving. Ladle the hot cider into heat-resistant mugs, garnish with fresh cinnamon sticks and orange slices, and serve immediately.

Notes

For gatherings, transfer to a slow cooker set to "warm" setting to keep it at the perfect temperature throughout your event.
If you don't have cheesecloth, a tea infuser or coffee filter works wonderfully as a substitute for the spice bundle.
For families with young children, 30 minutes provides a milder, more accessible flavor profile that kids tend to prefer.
Cider actually improves after 24 hours of refrigeration as flavors continue to meld.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 30gSodium: 25mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 28gVitamin C: 12mg
Keyword Mulled Cider, Apple Cider, Non-Alcoholic, Holiday Drink, Family Gathering
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