Spiked Mulled Cider with Bourbon

Warm up with a cozy spiked mulled cider with bourbon on those cold winter nights! This recipe is just as tasty with or without alcohol.

I am all about the cozy vibes that the fall and winter seasons bring. One of my absolute favorite drinks that my family and I enjoy making during this season is spiked mulled apple cider. Trust me, make this for your next family gathering and everyone will be raving about it!

The best part? This recipe is super easy to make! Simply throw all the ingredients in a slow cooker or a pot and you'll be getting cozy on the couch with a cocktail in hand in no time. Plus, the longer you let it simmer on the stove, the better it tastes and the better your house smells. It is like having a spiced apple cider candle burning all day long! Who doesn't want that?

What is Mulled Cider?

According to Merriam-Webster to "mull" means "to heat, sweeten, and flavor (a beverage, such as wine or cider) with spices."

Typically, the two drink options people mull are wine or cider.

Shoutout to my girl Sarah from Broma Bakery who has an amazing mulled wine recipe!

For mulled cider, you can use a variety of different spices. Common spices to pair with hot apple cider are cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. I also like to add sliced apples and oranges for extra flavor and because it looks pretty!

What is the Best Way to Heat Mulled Cider?

My preferred option for heating up mulled apple cider is a slow cooker. This is great if you are hosting a party or having friends over because your cider will stay nice and toasty all night long. The cider might not last all night because it is so darn delicious, but that's besides the point!

No slow cooker? You can also let the apple cider simmer on your stovetop. The key with either option - slow cooker or stovetop - is to let your cider simmer for a few hours so all the flavors really come together.

Can Mulled Cider be Made Without Alcohol?

Alcoholic mulled cider is my pick, but of course you can make it alcohol-free! Adding the alcohol is the last step of the process. You don't want to add the bourbon to the slow cooker or stovetop while the cider is mulling because all the alcohol will burn off, and who wants that?

When ready to serve, pour a shot (or two) into a mug and ladle the the cider overtop and you have yourself some delicious alcoholic mulled cider. If you don't want any alcohol, just skip the shot.

If you try my mulled apple cider recipe this season, let me know! I would love to hear your thoughts through a review or comment below. Also, don't forget to tag me in your recipes on Instagram.

Try more recipes below:

• Watermelon Cucumber Lemonade
• Blood Orange Mojito
• Apple Pancakes

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