- Can I use unfiltered apple juice?
- Yes, it makes a thicker, richer drink (non-alcoholic punch). Cider yields a clearer, lighter result.
- Aren't cloves too strong?
- Eugenol in cloves is intense and numbing. 3-4 pieces are plenty for a pint, and it's crucial to remove them at the end.
Cinnamon Orange Mulled Cider
A drink evoking winter markets, where the marriage of apple and orange is completed by cinnamon. This recipe is about layering aromas: building on fruit cider with citrus acidity, spicy warmth, and finally the softness of honey and cream. Not just a drink, but a complete dessert experience.
Ingredients
2
cups
Apple Cider (Dry or Sweet)
1/4
cup
Fresh Orange Juice
1
strip
Orange Peel (no white pith)
1
stick
Cinnamon Stick
2
tbsp
Honey
3
whole
Cloves
1/2
cup
Whipped Cream
2
slices
Orange (garnish)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Mugs
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Pour cider and orange juice into a saucepan.
Tip: The blend creates the acid-sugar base balance.
2
✓
Toss in spices: orange peel, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium.
Tip: Heat opens up the spices. Orange oils will float on top.
3
✓
Keep around 175°F for 10 minutes. Do not boil!
Tip: Boiling destroys fruit aromas and evaporates alcohol (if present).
4
✓
Remove from heat and stir in the honey.
Tip: Adding honey later preserves its flavor and nutrients.
5
✓
Fish out spices (or strain) and pour into mugs.
Tip: Nothing worse than biting into a whole clove.
6
✓
Garnish with whipped cream and fresh orange slice.
Tip: Cold cream vs. hot drink creates a unique sensation.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 cups Apple Cider (Dry or Sweet)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 1 strip Orange Peel (no white pith)
- 1 stick Cinnamon Stick
- 2 tbsp Honey
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1/2 cup Whipped Cream
- 2 slices Orange (garnish)