Description

A warm, spiced, non-alcoholic mulled apple cider infused with star anise, cinnamon, and orange. This easy ‘dump and simmer’ recipe creates a cozy autumn atmosphere perfect for fall entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

1 gallon (3.8 liters) fresh-pressed apple cider
1 large organic orange, sliced into rounds
1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Gala), sliced into wedges
4–5 whole star anise pods
3 large cinnamon sticks (Cassia preferred)
6–8 whole cloves
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
4–5 cardamom pods, crushed (optional)
2–3 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Slice the orange into thin rounds and remove seeds. Slice the apple into thin wedges. Measure out all spices.
Pour the apple cider into a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the sliced oranges, apple wedges, and all spices. Stir gently to combine.
Turn heat to medium-low and warm the cider until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil). This takes about 10-15 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20-30 minutes to infuse the spices. Taste after 20 minutes and adjust time if needed.
Remove from heat. Taste and add brown sugar or maple syrup if desired, stirring until dissolved. Stir in vanilla extract. Let sit for 5 minutes.
Strain the cider through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or serving jug, discarding the solids.
Pour into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not boil the cider as it ruins the flavor and makes spices bitter. Use whole spices for a clear drink; ground spices will make it cloudy. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To add alcohol, stir in rum or brandy after removing from heat.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: German

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8 oz
Calories: 120
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 5
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1

Keywords: mulled cider, apple cider, Oktoberfest, fall recipe, non-alcoholic, star anise, warm drink, autumn