Mulled Wine Recipe: Cozy Winter Warmth in a Glass

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Mulled wine is a warm, spiced drink perfect for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings. You can easily make this cozy beverage at home with red wine, oranges, spices, and a sweetener of your choice. It’s a simple recipe that fills your home with delightful aromas as it simmers on the stove.

To make mulled wine, you’ll combine wine with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and other spices in a pot. Heat the mixture gently, being careful not to boil it. In about 15-20 minutes, you’ll have a tasty drink to share with friends and family.

Exact Ingredients ( + Possible Substitutes )

Here’s what you’ll need to make mulled wine:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine • 1/4 cup brandy • 1 orange, sliced • 2-3 cinnamon sticks • 3-4 whole cloves • 2-3 star anise pods • 2-3 tablespoons honey or sugar

You can use any dry red wine you like. Merlot, Zinfandel, or Cabernet Sauvignon work well.

No brandy? Try rum, bourbon, or cognac instead. Or skip the alcohol for a virgin version.

Fresh orange slices add a nice citrus touch. You can also use lemon or tangerine slices.

The spices give mulled wine its signature flavor. Feel free to adjust amounts to your taste.

For sweetness, honey is traditional. Brown sugar or maple syrup are good alternatives.

Want to get creative? Try adding apple cider, cranberry juice, or a splash of vanilla extract.

Remember, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Instructions

Get ready to make some delicious mulled wine! Here’s how:

1. Gather your ingredients:
   • 1 bottle of red wine
   • 1/4 cup brandy
   • 1 orange, sliced
   • 2-3 cinnamon sticks
   • 3-4 star anise pods
   • 4-5 whole cloves
   • 2-3 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional)
2. Pour the wine into a medium pot or small Dutch oven.
3. Add the brandy, orange slices, and spices to the pot.
4. If you like it sweet, stir in some honey or sugar.
5. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to steam. Don’t let it boil!
6. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes.
7. Give it a taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
8. Strain the wine into mugs to remove the spices and orange slices.
9. Garnish with a fresh orange slice and cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.
10. Sip and enjoy your cozy mulled wine!

Remember to keep the heat low and never let it boil. This keeps the alcohol from evaporating and ensures a perfect flavor. Your home will smell amazing as it simmers!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make your mulled wine extra special with these handy tips:

• Use a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for the best flavor.

• Don’t let the wine boil – keep it at a gentle simmer to preserve the alcohol content.

• Try adding a splash of brandy or rum for an extra kick.

Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend. Some tasty options include:

• Star anise
• Cardamom pods
• Fresh ginger slices
• Vanilla bean

To save time, make a spice-infused simple syrup ahead. Mix it with wine when ready to serve.

Store leftover mulled wine in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for 3-5 days.

Reheat gently on the stove before serving. Add a fresh orange slice to brighten the flavors.

For longer storage, freeze mulled wine in ice cube trays. Pop a cube into your mug and microwave for a quick warm-up.