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Mulled Cranberry Apple Cider

This mulled cranberry apple cider is made by simmering apple cider with fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and cloves, creating a fragrant and tangy warm beverage. The mixture develops a vibrant red color and a thick, spiced aroma, with tart cranberry notes balancing the sweetness of the cider and spices, resulting in a cozy, slightly chunky drink with bits of fruit and spices floating throughout.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apple cider preferably unfiltered for more aroma
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries adds tartness and visual sparkle
  • 2 sticks cinnamon sticks for warm spicy aroma
  • 4 whole cloves spice aroma and flavor
  • to taste sugar or honey optional, add for sweetness

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Pour the apple cider into a saucepan and place it over medium heat.
  2. Add the cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to the cider, and stir gently to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the spices and cranberries to release their flavors, and the cranberries to soften and slightly burst, creating a vibrant red hue.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Taste the cider and add sugar or honey if desired, stirring until dissolved and the drink reaches your preferred sweetness.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat, strain if you prefer a smoother drink, or leave the cranberries and spices in for a more rustic presentation.
  7. Pour the mulled cider into mugs, ensuring some of the fragrant spices and cranberries remain in each serving for visual appeal and added flavor.