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 Christmas recipe, ready in about 40 minutes, brings together apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and 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 "Add this recipe to your weekly plan" 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.