Mulled Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon and Clove

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-26 · Updated 2026-04-26

Warm and fragrant mulled apple cider simmered with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange zest — an inviting drink for festive winter evenings. This American-inspired Christmas recipe, ready in about 40 minutes, brings together apple cider, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 6, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 6 cups apple cider
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 8 whole cloves
• 6 whole allspice berries
• 1 medium orange, sliced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 whole star anise
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour 6 cups of apple cider into a large pot. Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 8 whole cloves, 6 whole allspice berries, and 2 whole star anise.
2. Step 2: Add 1 medium sliced orange, 1-inch piece of sliced fresh ginger, and 2 tbsp brown sugar into the pot. Stir gently to combine.
3. Step 3: Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it mull for 30 minutes, allowing spices and fruit to infuse the cider fully.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract for added warmth and depth. Strain the cider to remove solids and serve warm in mugs garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.