As the air turns crisp and the holidays approach, few things can capture the spirit of the season quite like the warm, aromatic scent of mulled wine or cider. The key to these heartwarming beverages? Mulling spices. This aromatic blend of fragrant herbs and spices brings a burst of cozy comfort. Your home will be instantly filled with the essence of the holidays. Hosting a holiday party, enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, or looking for the perfect gift? – mulling spices are a simple and festive way to elevate your season.
But what exactly are mulling spices? And how can you make them your own? Let’s explore everything you need to know about this holiday essential.
What Are Mulling Spices?
Mulling spices are a blend of spices traditionally used to enhance the flavor of wine, cider, and sometimes even beer. The process of “mulling” involves heating the beverage with the spices, allowing their warm flavors and fragrances to infuse into the drink. The result is a sweet, spiced, and comforting concoction that’s perfect for winter celebrations.
Now, Mulling spices are most well know for use in wine BUT did you know they’re also fantastic in hot apple cider, tea, or even non-alcoholic versions for family-friendly gatherings. Furthermore, the blend of spices is highly customizable, but certain ingredients are always a staple in the mix.
* Classic Mulling Spice Ingredients *
The beauty of mulling spices lies in their simplicity. These ingredients are easy to find and often already in your pantry. Here’s a list of the most common ingredients in a classic mulling spice blend:
Cinnamon Sticks: The primary flavor of mulling spices, cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness, infusing both scent and taste into your drink.
Cloves: These tiny, aromatic buds pack a punch with their rich, slightly smoky flavor and are often used in holiday baking as well.
Allspice Berries: With a taste that’s reminiscent of a mix between cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, allspice adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall spice blend.
Star Anise: A spice is known for its licorice-like flavor. It adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the mixture.
Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg can lend a warm, slightly earthy flavor to the mix. It’s often used in small amounts, as its flavor can be quite potent.
Orange Peel: Dried orange peel adds a citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the other spices.
Cardamom Pods: While not always included in every blend, cardamom can bring an exotic, aromatic flavor with hints of mint and citrus.
These ingredients, when combined, create a fragrant blend that’s perfect for steeping into wine, cider, or even water to make a flavorful and aromatic hot drink
* How to Make Your Own Mulling Spices *
Making your own mulling spices is simple and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started, along with some optional additions:
Basic Mulling Spices Recipe
Ingredients:
Dried slices of 1 lemon
Dried slices of 1 Orange
1/2 cup brown sugar (1/4 cup if mulling cider, not wine)
6 whole cloves
2 cinnamon stick
2 star anise
1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine or cider, mixed juice of choice or tea
1 tablespoon dried ginger pieces or fresh ginger slices
A few black peppercorns
Instructions:
Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange peel, and star anise. You can use whole spices, as they will release more flavor during the mulling process.
Store for Later Use: If you’re not using the spices immediately, store them in an airtight container (such as a glass jar) in a cool, dry place. The spices can last for several months.
To Use: Add about 1 handful (approximately 1/2 cup) to every 4 cups of your favorite beverage (such as cider, wine, or tea). You can either add the spices directly to the liquid or tie them in a cheesecloth or spice bag for easier removal.
Simmer: Heat the beverage gently on the stove, letting it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the liquid. If you’re making mulled wine, remember not to boil it, as that can affect the flavor and alcohol content.
Strain & Serve: Once the spices have had time to infuse, strain the liquid to remove any whole spices. Serve warm and enjoy!
You can adjust the proportions based on your taste preferences, adding more or less of any particular spice. Experimenting with these ingredients lets you make a truly personalized blend!
This sweet, tart beverage is warm and comforting. Cinnamon, clove & anise spice give this drink a wonderful flavor. This is a very festive & beautiful drink. If wine is not your thing, use a beautiful cider. Makes a nice gift. Cut the sugar amount in HALF if using cider rather than wine.
Ingredients
Dried slices of 1 lemon
Dried slices of 1 Orange
1/2 cup brown sugar (1/4 cup if mulling cider, not wine)
6 whole cloves
2 cinnamon stick
2 star anise
1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine or cider
Instructions
Preheat oven to 170 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Spread sugar out to dry in oven for 30-35 minutes.
Remove from oven and allow to cool. Place all ingredients in a jar or clear baggie.
Add tag with instructions:
Instructions for Mulling Wine or Cider:
To make the mulled wine, combine mix and wine or cider in saucepan and simmer for 25 minutes. Strain and serve in mug or glass. Keep warm for serving.
Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients to slow cooker and cook low until wine comes to simmer. Turn setting to warm and ladle into glasses.
Notes
Optional Additions: 2-3 star anise pods 2-3 cardamom pods 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg (or 1 whole nutmeg, cracked open) 1 tablespoon allspice berries 1-2 dried bay leaves 1 tablespoon dried ginger pieces or fresh ginger slices A few black peppercorns
Did you make this recipe?
Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram
There is just something special about making someone a handmade Holiday gift. It doesn’t have to be something complicated or even break the bank. Something as simple as a beautifully packed bag of Holiday Mulling Spices is perfect for friend, teacher or even a hostess gift.
A simple, humble gift done thoughtfully in beautiful packaging can really make a statement. Who wouldn’t enjoy such a beautiful gift?
Remember, you don’t have to use alcohol, you can pair mulling spices with apple cider, cranberry juice, mixed juices or even tea.
We just love the winter time around here. In NW Montana we have LOTS of cold, cozy winter days just meant for snuggling up with a warm cup-o-something. This mulling spice recipe is sure to warm you from head to foot and as stated here, does make a beautiful holiday gift. Share this one with a friend and be a sure to tag me on Instagram!
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