Mulled Apple Cider

Mulled apple cider has a way of setting the tone the moment it’s poured. The gentle steam, the deep amber colour, and the aroma of warm spices drifting through the room signal that something special is being shared. This version is made for gatherings; large ones, lingering ones where mugs are refilled and conversations stretch on. It’s fragrant, gently spiced, and full of comforting apple flavour.

The blend of spices is carefully balanced to enhance the cider rather than overwhelm it. Cinnamon, clove, cardamom, star anise, and fresh ginger work together to create warmth and depth, while slices of navel orange add a subtle brightness. Lightly warming the spices before adding them allows their natural oils to bloom, giving the cider a fuller, more rounded flavour.

For events and celebrations, an electric coffee urn is one of the easiest ways to serve mulled cider. It keeps the cider hot without boiling and makes self-serve refills effortless. Placing the spices in the grounds basket allows all the flavor to infuse while keeping the cider clear and easy to pour.

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. It can be simmered gently on the stovetop or prepared in a slow cooker, then transferred to an urn as needed. No matter the method, the result is a generous batch of cider that invites people to slow down, warm their hands around a mug, and stay awhile.

Mulled Apple Cider

Ingredients

  • 10 liters apple cider

  • 5 cinnamon sticks (3-inch)

  • 10 whole cloves

  • 8 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

  • 3 star anise pods

  • 1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger

  • 1 navel orange, sliced

Directions

  1. In a dry frying pan over low heat, gently warm the cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, star anise, and ginger just until fragrant. Do not brown or burn the spices.

  2. Pour the apple cider into a 42-cup electric coffee urn.

  3. Place the warmed spices and orange slices into the coffee grounds basket.

  4. Secure the lid and turn on the urn, allowing it to complete its percolating cycle.

  5. Once finished, the cider is fully infused and ready to serve.

Alternate Methods

  • Stovetop: Combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer gently over low heat. Do not boil. Refill an urn as needed during serving.

  • Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients and heat on low for several hours, then serve directly or transfer to an urn.

Serve hot and enjoy throughout your gathering.