Orange and cinnamon mulled cider

A drink evoking the atmosphere of winter markets, where the marriage of apple and orange is completed by cinnamon. This recipe is about layering aromas: the base is fruity cider, built upon by citrus acidity, then spicy warmth, finally closed by the softness of honey and cream. Not just a drink, but a complete dessert experience.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 20 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 265 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Saucepan
  • Sieve
  • Mugs

Allergen Information

⚠️ Sulphites
⚠️ Milk

Instructions

1

Pour the cider and orange juice into a saucepan.

Tip: The mixture of the two juices provides the base acid-sugar balance.
2

Toss in the spices: orange peel, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat.

Tip: Spices open up with heat. The essential oils from the orange peel will float on the surface.
3

Keep at around 80°C for 10 minutes. Do not boil!

Tip: Boiling 'smashes' fruity aromas and evaporates the alcohol (if present).
4

Remove from heat and stir in the honey.

Tip: Adding honey afterwards preserves its flavour and nutrients.
5

Fish out the spices (or strain) and pour into mugs.

Tip: There is nothing worse than biting into a whole clove.
6

Garnish with whipped cream and the fresh orange slice.

Tip: The contrast of cold cream and hot drink in the mouth is a special experience.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use cloudy apple juice?
Yes, that makes the drink thicker and more substantial (alcohol-free punch). With cider, the result is cleaner and more translucent.
Aren't cloves too strong?
Eugenol in cloves is very intense and numbing. 3-4 pieces are plenty for half a litre, and it is important to remove them at the end.

Ingredients

  • 500 ml Apple cider (dry or sweet)
  • 50 ml Fresh orange juice
  • 1 strip Orange peel (without white pith)
  • 1 pc Cinnamon stick
  • 30 g Honey
  • 3 pc Whole cloves
  • 100 ml Whipped cream
  • 2 slices Orange slices (garnish)