Make cozy mulled cider (non-alcoholic) or mulled wine in minutes.
WHAT’S IN THE BAG
Cinnamon stick
Whole cloves
Crystallized ginger
Ground nutmeg
Star anise
Pink peppercorns
Black peppercorns
Dried orange slice
QUICK RATIOS
Mulled Cider: 1 spice bag + 2 L (8–9 cups) apple cider or apple juice
Mulled Wine: 1 spice bag + 750 mL red wine + 250 mL orange juice (or water) + sweetener to taste
(Scale up or down using the same proportions.)
METHOD A — MULLED CIDER (NON-ALCOHOLIC)
You’ll need:
1 muslin spice bag
2 L (8–9 cups) apple cider or apple juice
Optional: 1 orange (fresh slices), 1–3 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
Stovetop
Pour cider into a pot. Add the spice bag and a few orange slices if using.
Heat until steaming, then reduce to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for 20–30 minutes. Avoid boiling.
Taste and sweeten if desired. Remove and discard the spice bag.
Serve warm. Garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.
Slow cooker
Add cider and the spice bag to the slow cooker.
Cover and heat on Low for 2–3 hours (or High ~1 hour) until fragrant. Do not boil.
Remove and discard the spice bag. Keep on Warm for serving.
METHOD B — MULLED WINE (ADULTS ONLY)
You’ll need:
1 muslin spice bag
1 bottle (750 mL) medium-bodied red wine
1 cup (250 mL) orange juice or water
2–4 tbsp sugar, honey, or maple syrup (to taste)
Optional: 30–60 mL brandy
Stovetop
Combine wine, orange juice (or water), sweetener, and the spice bag in a saucepan.
Heat over low until just steaming. Do not boil. Keep below a light simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Remove and discard the spice bag. Add brandy if using. Serve warm in heat-safe mugs.
Tip: If flavors become too strong, add a splash more juice or water to balance.
SERVING IDEAS
Garnish with orange wheels, a cinnamon stick, or a few cranberries.
For kids, top mulled cider with a dollop of whipped cream.
Hosting? Keep a slow cooker on Warm for easy refills.
LEFTOVERS & STORAGE
Refrigerate leftovers (without the spice bag) for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently until warm—avoid boiling to preserve flavor.
GOOD TO KNOW
Strength: Longer steep = stronger spice. Start with the times above and adjust next batch.
Sweetness: Taste first; many ciders and some wines are already sweet.
Reuse: For cider only, you can re-steep the same bag once within 24 hours (flavor will be lighter).
All-ages option: Choose the cider method for a crowd-pleaser without alcohol.
From all of us at the Hill & Harbour Real Estate Group—wishing you a cozy, happy Fall!