Mulled Apple Tea Mocktail
Warm apple cider, gentle spices, citrus, and a base of black tea make this cozy mocktail perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings. Serve warm or chilled, with easy pantry ingredients and no alcohol needed.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon
- Heatproof mugs or glasses
- Wooden spoon
- Small knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider or apple juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 3 slices fresh ginger
- 2 orange slices
- 2 black tea bags (or caffeine-free)
- 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup optional, to taste
Instructions
- Pour apple cider or juice into a medium saucepan.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger, and orange slices. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Lower heat and let simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Add tea bags and steep for 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Discard tea bags and spices.
- Taste and stir in honey or syrup if desired.
- Strain into mugs and serve warm.
Notes
Adjust spice strength and sweetness to taste. For a chilled version, cool in the fridge and serve over ice. Try pear juice or decaf tea for a variation. Leftovers reheat well and taste even richer the next day.