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Cozy Crockpot Spiked Mulled Wine: Easy Holiday Cider Recipe

crockpot spiked mulled wine - featured image

A simple, slow-cooked spiked mulled wine that combines dry red wine, apple cider, and warming spices for a festive, comforting drink perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 64 oz 100% apple cider (unfiltered)
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 3 large cinnamon sticks
  • 3–4 star anise pods
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 cups whiskey or bourbon
  • Orange wheels for garnish
  • Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash oranges and slice into thin rounds (1/4 inch thick). Peel and slice fresh ginger into thin coins.
  2. Pour the red wine, apple cider, and orange juice into a 4-6 quart slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, allspice, and ginger slices to the pot.
  4. Stir in brown sugar (or honey) and vanilla extract until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Do not cook on HIGH.
  6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the whiskey or bourbon and stir well.
  7. Turn the slow cooker to WARM. Strain out all solid spices and fruit pieces using a fine mesh strainer or skimmer.
  8. Ladle the warm wine into mugs and garnish with an orange wheel and cinnamon stick.

Notes

Do not boil the wine, as high heat can make it bitter and evaporate the alcohol. If serving non-drinkers, omit the whiskey and add extra cider or juice. The spices should be removed after 6 hours to prevent bitterness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days without the spices.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled wine, spiked cider, crockpot recipe, holiday drinks, winter beverages, slow cooker wine, easy cocktail, festive drinks