Spiced warm cocktails to the rescue!
This is quintessential holiday comfort — a big, warm hug in a mug. November and December trapped in a cozy cup, warming you to the soul.
It’s like homemade potpourri for your home.
Make a batch and carry it in a thermos wherever you go through the holidays — and beyond. If it’s freezing outside, this is your security blanket. Share it at get-togethers, sip while you pregame holiday shopping (with a designated driver, of course), or pass it around at a party. It’s that kind of seasonal must-have.
I’m currently obsessed with mulled wine — especially because there’s a version for both red and white. I’m often craving white wine, while reds feel extra cozy for sitting by the fire or hosting holiday gatherings. Offering both warms every preference and makes entertaining easy: guests aren’t stuck choosing only one style.
Both versions are built on apple cider, vanilla bean, warming spices and fruit. The red gets a touch of maple syrup for sweetness while the white is brightened with honey and fresh ginger. The differences are subtle but meaningful — each pairing enhances the character of the base wine.
Both can easily be warmed in a slow cooker, and both can be made ahead of time for stress-free serving.
Use a cinnamon stick as a garnish (or a playful straw) and don’t be intimidated by star anise — it adds visual appeal and a lovely licorice-like note. Garnish with orange wedges, cranberries and whole spices for a pretty, festive presentation.
These mulled wines are perfect alongside other seasonal cocktails like apple cider sangria or cider margaritas — or simply offered as two warming options for guests. It’s an easy, thoughtful way to say “I’m thankful for you.”
Mulled Red and White Wine
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Ingredients
Mulled White Wine
- 1 bottle dry white wine, such as Chardonnay
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup whole cranberries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean, split
- 1 tablespoon whole cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon-size knob ginger
- Extra for serving: cinnamon sticks, orange wedges, cranberries, star anise
Mulled Red Wine
- 1 bottle semi-dry red wine, such as Cabernet
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup whole cranberries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 4 star anise
- 1 vanilla bean, split
- 1 tablespoon whole cardamom pods
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- Extra for serving: cinnamon sticks, orange wedges, cranberries, star anise
Instructions
Mulled White Wine
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Combine all white wine ingredients in a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. For easier cleanup, place cloves, cardamom and any small whole spices in a piece of cheesecloth and tie, or strain them out with a slotted spoon after heating. Cook 10 to 15 minutes until just simmering and hot. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if needed. Serve immediately in warmed glasses garnished with cinnamon sticks and orange slices.
Mulled Red Wine
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Combine red wine ingredients in a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat. Cook 10 to 15 minutes until slightly simmering and hot. Serve immediately in warmed glasses with cinnamon sticks and orange slices.
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