Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a fragrant haven of warmth and comfort? Imagine a drink that captures the essence of a crisp autumn day, bursting with citrusy brightness and deep, spicy undertones. Our Mulled Mixed Fruit Cider Mandarins is not just a beverage—it's an experience that will transport you to a world of cozy comfort, where every sip tells a story of comfort and indulgence. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss, this recipe is your ticket to culinary magic!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 mandarins, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 star anise
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 cups of apple cider, 2 mandarins, a cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (if desired).
- Wash the mandarins thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Slice the mandarins into thin rounds, discarding any seeds as you go.
- In a large saucepan, pour in the 4 cups of apple cider. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the cider to warm up gradually.
- Once the cider is warm, add the sliced mandarins to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine the fruit with the cider.
- Add the cinnamon stick and star anise to the mixture. These spices will infuse the cider with their warm, aromatic flavors as it heats up.
- If you prefer a sweeter cider, add the tablespoon of brown sugar at this stage. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Allow the cider to simmer gently on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking at the bottom.
- After 30 minutes, taste the mulled cider. Adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more brown sugar, or remove from heat if it’s to your liking.
- Once ready, remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a ladle, carefully pour the mulled mixed fruit cider mandarins into mugs or heatproof glasses.
- For a decorative touch, you can garnish each serving with a slice of mandarin or a star anise pod. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of your homemade mulled cider!
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality apple cider for the best flavor profile.
- Use whole spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise for maximum aromatic infusion.
- Simmer on low heat—never boil—to preserve the delicate flavors of the cider and fruits.
- For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the spices before serving.
- Make extra and store in the refrigerator; the flavors will continue to develop overnight.
- Experiment with additional spices like cloves or ginger for unique flavor variations.
- Use organic mandarins if possible to ensure the purest citrus notes.
- Serve in clear mugs to showcase the beautiful color and floating fruit slices.
- Pair with holiday cookies or warm pastries for a complete sensory experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
