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Mulled Cider and Muddled Thoughts

Mulled Cider and Muddled Thoughts

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm cup of Mulled Cider and Muddled Thoughts to wrap you in cozy comfort. This delightful drink, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of citrus, is perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. Imagine the scent of cinnamon and cloves wafting through your home as you prepare this inviting beverage that not only warms your body but also sparks joyful conversations. Ready to transform your autumn nights? Dive into this easy recipe and discover how to create a drink that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 gallon apple cider
  2. 3 cinnamon sticks
  3. 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  4. 1 tablespoon allspice berries
  5. 1 orange, sliced
  6. 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 gallon of apple cider, 3 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon of whole cloves, 1 tablespoon of allspice berries, 1 sliced orange, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar (optional).
  2. In a large pot or slow cooker, pour in the entire gallon of apple cider. This will be the base of your mulled cider.
  3. Add the 3 cinnamon sticks to the pot. These will infuse the cider with a warm, spicy flavor.
  4. Next, add the 1 tablespoon of whole cloves and the 1 tablespoon of allspice berries. These spices will enhance the aromatic profile of the cider.
  5. Slice the orange into rounds and add the slices directly into the pot. The citrus will add a refreshing brightness to the drink.
  6. If you prefer a sweeter cider, add the optional 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
  7. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Allow the mixture to warm gradually, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar if added.
  8. Once the cider begins to steam and small bubbles form on the surface, reduce the heat to low. This will allow the flavors to meld without boiling.
  9. Let the cider simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This will allow the spices and orange to infuse their flavors into the cider.
  10. After 30 minutes, taste the cider. Adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
  11. Once the cider is to your liking, remove it from heat. Use a fine mesh strainer to strain out the spices and orange slices if desired.
  12. Serve the mulled cider warm in mugs, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks or orange slices if desired.
  13. Enjoy your Mulled Cider and Muddled Thoughts with friends or family, perfect for a cozy gathering!

Tips

  1. Choose Quality Cider: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality, fresh apple cider. The richer the cider, the more robust your mulled drink will be.
  2. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a few star anise or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile even further.
  3. Slow Cooker Option: If you want to set it and forget it, use a slow cooker on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully over a longer period.
  4. Garnish Creatively: When serving, consider garnishing with fresh rosemary or additional citrus slices for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
  5. Sweetness Control: Start with less brown sugar and adjust to your preference. Remember, you can always add more sweetness, but it's hard to take it away!
  6. Serve with Snacks: Pair your mulled cider with seasonal snacks like spiced nuts or cheese platters to create a complete cozy experience.
  7. Make it a Cocktail: For an adult twist, add a splash of rum or bourbon to each mug before serving. It adds warmth and depth to the flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 120kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g

Protein: 0g

Fat: 0g

Saturated Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

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