The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider Recipe

Introduction

This warm and fragrant mulled apple cider is perfect for cozy gatherings and chilly evenings. Bursting with spices, fresh fruit, and a touch of brandy, it brings festive flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 Granny Smith apples
• 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 5–7 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup apple brandy or regular brandy (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the apple cider into a large pot and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Dice the Granny Smith apples and add them to the cider.
3. Step 3: Peel the orange rind in large pieces and toss it into the pot.
4. Step 4: Add the allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries to the mixture.
5. Step 5: Stir in the sugar until it dissolves completely.
6. Step 6: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Step 7: If using, stir in the brandy and continue simmering for another 10 to 15 minutes.
8. Step 8: Serve the mulled cider warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For a non-alcoholic version, omit the brandy and add a cinnamon stick or two for extra warmth.
• Use a slow cooker to keep the cider warm throughout your event without boiling.
• Try adding a few star anise pods for a subtle licorice flavor.
• If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the sugar to taste or substitute with honey or maple syrup.

Storage

Store any leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make mulled cider ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat just before serving. This also allows the flavors to develop more deeply.

What if I don’t have allspice berries?

You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground allspice or use a mix of cloves and nutmeg for a similar warm spice profile.

The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider Recipe

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4.7 from 56 reviews

The Pioneer Woman’s Mulled Apple Cider is a warm, spiced beverage perfect for cozy gatherings and chilly evenings. Made with fresh apples, orange peel, aromatic spices like allspice berries and cinnamon sticks, and balanced with a touch of sugar and optional brandy, this drink offers a flavorful and comforting taste of fall and winter seasons.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Mulled Cider Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 Granny Smith apples, diced
• 1 orange, rind peeled in large pieces
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 5–7 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup apple brandy or regular brandy (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Apple Cider: Pour the apple cider into a large pot and place it over medium-high heat to warm up the base for your mulled cider.
2. Add the Apples: Dice the Granny Smith apples into small pieces and toss them into the warming cider to infuse fresh apple flavor.
3. Prepare and Add Orange Peel: Peel the rind off the orange in large pieces, avoiding the bitter white pith, and add these peel pieces to the pot for a citrusy aroma.
4. Add Spices and Cranberries: Add the allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries to the pot to provide warm, festive spice notes and a pop of color.
5. Sweeten the Mixture: Stir in the 1/2 cup of sugar thoroughly to dissolve it evenly, enhancing the natural sweetness of the cider and fruits.
6. Simmer the Cider: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow it to simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour to fully develop flavors.
7. Add Brandy and Final Simmer: If using brandy, stir it in at this stage and let the cider simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors together.
8. Serve Warm: Ladle the mulled cider into mugs or cups and serve warm for a comforting and aromatic seasonal treat.

Notes

• Use a large pot or slow cooker for best results depending on your preference for hands-off cooking.
• Adjust the sugar quantity according to desired sweetness.
• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the brandy.
• To intensify the spice flavor, crush the allspice berries slightly before adding.
• The mulled cider can be reheated gently and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: mulled cider, apple cider recipe, warm apple drink, fall beverage, spiced cider, holiday drink