How to Make Mulled Cider - Nicole Gibbons Style

There’s nothing like a cup of hot mulled cider to keep you warm when it’s cold outside. It’s such a simple drink to make…and it fills your home with the most deliciously fragrant aromas of the holiday season. Think cinnamon, orange peels, warm cloves and star anise…I can smell it already! The key to a great mulled cider is to start with good, quality cider. I like buying local unpasteurized cider which has more of a cloudy appearance. Then you add in your spices and for a bit of extra warmth you can even spike your glass with a shot of rum or bourbon. It’s a great way to enjoy a bit of holiday cheer:)

What you’ll need to make this is a gallon of really good cider, cinnamon sticks, an orange, whole cloves, allspice berries, star anise and some fresh cranberries. I usually just eyeball the amount of spices I include but have included a basic recipe to guid you below. Pour your cider into a large pot on low heat, add in your spices and orange slices. A great tip is to lightly score the skin of your orange with small cuts all over before you slice it… this will really help to infuse that yummy orange peel flavoring. Let everything simmer low and slow for about 30 minutes. Strain your spices before serving and ladle into a mug. Now enjoy most yummy cider ever. (And PS – it always tastes better with a touch of bourbon;-)