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Cozy Mulled Wine Recipe Easy Homemade Drink for Cold Nights

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A warm, spiced mulled wine perfect for cold nights, holiday gatherings, and cozy winter evenings. This easy homemade drink blends fresh orange zest with warming spices and a hint of sweetness for a comforting and festive experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 750 ml (25 oz) dry or semi-dry red wine (e.g., Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, Apothic Red recommended)
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced with zest reserved
  • 2–3 cinnamon sticks
  • 5–6 whole cloves
  • 2 pieces star anise (optional but recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple juice (optional)
  • Optional garnishes: fresh cranberries, additional orange slices, sprig of rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients (5 minutes): Thinly slice the orange, reserving some zest before slicing. Peel and slice the fresh ginger thinly. Measure out your spices, honey, and other ingredients.
  2. Combine Liquids and Spices (5 minutes): In a large saucepan, pour the 750 ml (25 oz) red wine and 1 cup (240 ml) apple juice. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, sliced ginger, and orange slices. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Heat Gently (10 minutes): Warm the mixture over low to medium-low heat. Keep it at a gentle simmer or just below boiling to infuse the spices without evaporating alcohol.
  4. Add Sweetener and Vanilla (2 minutes): Stir in 3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  5. Simmer and Infuse (10-15 minutes): Let the mulled wine simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling.
  6. Final Taste and Strain (2 minutes): Taste again and adjust sweetness or spice levels. Remove from heat and strain out spices and fruit for a smooth pour or leave them in for rustic charm.
  7. Serve Warm: Ladle into heatproof glasses or mugs, garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or a rosemary sprig if desired. Enjoy warm.

Notes

Do not boil the wine to preserve alcohol and avoid bitterness. Use whole spices for best flavor. Prepare garnishes while simmering to save time. For non-alcoholic version, substitute red wine with grape juice and add sparkling water. Mulled wine base can be made ahead without sweeteners and refrigerated overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled wine, cozy drink, winter beverage, holiday drink, spiced wine, homemade mulled wine, warm drink, easy mulled wine

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/cozy-mulled-wine-recipe-easy-homemade-drink-for-cold-nights/