Hot Mulled Cider

A hot nonalcoholic cider made by gently simmering apple cider with whole spices and orange, then straining and serving immediately while hot.

By Julienne

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1200 ml apple cider unfiltered if available
• 0.6666666667 piece orange washed; 4 thin slices for simmering and 2 thin slices for garnish
• 2 piece cinnamon stick whole
• 6 piece whole cloves whole
• 6 piece whole allspice berries whole
• 0.5 g ground nutmeg measured
• 1 g fine salt measured
• 0.3333333333 piece orange washed; 4 thin slices for simmering and 2 thin slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Add the apple cider, 4 orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, nutmeg, and salt to a 3.5 L or larger saucepan. Set over medium heat and bring just to a bare simmer, about 5 to 7 minutes. Small bubbles form at the edges and the liquid is steaming, but it is not at a hard boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and hold at a gentle simmer for 12 to 15 minutes so the spices infuse without becoming harsh. Do not let it boil rapidly. The cider tastes noticeably spiced and the orange aroma is clear.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and strain the cider through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof pitcher or directly into mugs. Discard the solids. The liquid is clear of spice pieces and ready to serve.
4. Top each serving with the remaining 2 orange slices and serve immediately while hot. Each mug is steaming and fragrant.