As the weather gets chilly, I find myself reaching for warm and cozy drinks to keep me toasty. One of my favorites to make is a Mulled Gin & Cider Cocktail. 🍂✨ It’s a delightful twist on a holiday classic, perfect for curling up by the fire or sharing with friends at a festive gathering.
Creating this drink is super simple and so rewarding. Start with a mix of cider and gin, then add spices like cinnamon and cloves. The aroma filling the kitchen is just the cherry on top! A hot mug of this cocktail is like a warm hug in a cup. 🍎🍸
Mulled Gin & Cider Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
Now for the tasty bits! Here’s what you’ll need:
- ml apple cider: The base of the drink. It brings a sweet fresh flavor.
- 100 ml gin: Adds a lovely aromatic kick.
- 2 cinnamon sticks: Infuses warmth and spice.
- 4 cloves: Lends a depth of flavor.
- 1 orange: Sliced into rounds for freshness.
- 2 star anise: For a touch of licorice sweetness.
- Honey or sugar optional: Sweeten it if you like.
- Fresh ginger slice: For a bit of zing!
These ingredients should be easy to find at any grocery store, making things super convenient.
Instructions
With everything prepped, let’s make this aromatic cocktail! 🌟
- Heat the cider: Pour the cider into the saucepan and add the cinnamon, cloves, orange slices, and star anise.
- Simmer gently: Let it simmer on low for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Add the gin: Stir in the gin gently. Don’t let it boil.
This should make enough for two servings, so feel free to double up if needed.
Notes
Add fruits: Mixing in apple slices or cranberries can add a fruity twist.
Alternative sweetness: Try maple syrup instead of honey or sugar for something different.
If you’re feeling creative, experiment with different gins to see how it changes the drink. I love hearing your ideas! Feel free to share them in the comments below. 🎉
Tasting Notes
When I first sip this mulled cocktail, the warmth hits me right away. It’s like wrapping a cozy blanket around myself. The blend of gin and cider is delightful. 🍎
The citrus flavors pop, adding a bright touch. Warm spices like cinnamon and cloves create a comforting sense that lingers. I love how the spices are perfectly balanced.
Here’s what I noticed in each sip:
- Gin brings a smooth, herbal note.
- Cider adds a sweet, apple taste.
- Cinnamon & Cloves make every sip feel inviting.
- A hint of orange zest gives a fresh twist.
This drink is a perfect companion for chilly evenings. I find that it inspires good conversation and laughter. 😊
What are your thoughts on this cocktail? Let me know in the comments below!
Substitute
Sometimes, I like to switch things up with my mulled gin and cider cocktail. If you do too, here are some ideas! 🍹
Gin Alternatives
- Vodka: Offers a smoother flavor, letting the spices take center stage.
- Rum: Adds a rich and warm sweetness.
Cider Options
- Apple juice: Perfect if you want a non-alcoholic version.
- Pear cider: Gives a fruity twist that’s quite refreshing. 🍐
Spice Swaps
- Cinnamon: Nutmeg can be another great choice for warmth.
- Cloves: Try using star anise for a slightly different aroma.
Feel free to mix and match! 🎉
What substitutions do you love to make? 🤔 Share your ideas in the comments. Let’s chat!
Must Have Ingredients
| Image | Title | Buy |
|---|---|---|
|
Collins Candied Fruit Orange Peel Twist in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Collins Strawberries in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Collins Candied Ginger in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Premium Lychees in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Oranfit Dried Orange Slices For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
Oranfit Dried Lime Slices For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
|
LAVA Premium Cocktail Rimmers Variety Pack | Buy On Amazon |
|
Pure Cane Simple Syrup Cocktail Mixer | Buy On Amazon |
|
Q GINGER BEER with Real Ginger & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
|
Q Mixers Premium Ginger Ale | Buy On Amazon |
|
Q ELDERFLOWER TONIC WATER with Real Quinine & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
|
Q Club soda with Himalayan Salt | Buy On Amazon |
|
WithCo Cucumber Gimlet Craft Cocktail Mixer with Mint | Buy On Amazon |
|
Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix- Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters, Orange, Cherry, Organic Demerara Sugar | Buy On Amazon |
|
Bittermilk No.1 Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned Mix | Buy On Amazon |
|
Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
|
Portland Syrups Lavender Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
|
Portland Syrups Vanilla Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
|
Original Bloody Mary Mix | Buy On Amazon |
|
Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit | Buy On Amazon |
|
Professional Drink Mixer Set for Beginners | Buy On Amazon |
|
1 Pack 3 Tier Bar Glass Rimmer | Buy On Amazon |
|
Cocktail Ice Mold With Easy Fill and Release Silicone Round Ice Ball Maker | Buy On Amazon |
|
Stainless Steel Bar Tool For Making Garnish for Cocktails & Mocktails | Buy On Amazon |
Tips & Tricks
When making mulled gin and cider, I like to start with fresh ingredients. It makes all the difference. 🍎
Get creative with the spices! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla for a unique twist.
Steeping time is key. I let my mix brew for at least 20 minutes to really soak up the flavors. Remember not to let it boil to avoid losing the gin’s essence.
Using quality gin can elevate your drink. Look for a gin with aromatic botanicals that will complement the warm spices.
Sweetness can be adjusted to taste. I sometimes add a bit of honey or brown sugar if I want a sweeter cocktail.
For serving, I enjoy using heatproof glass mugs. They keep the drink warm while showing off the beautiful color.✨
To make your mulled gin and cider an Instagram-worthy drink, garnish with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick. Let me know if you have any other fun garnishing ideas! 📸
I’d love to hear how your mulled gin and cider turns out! Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments below.
