Mulled cider is always my first choice of drink to serve at a winter party. Not only is it delicious, but it gives a break from the endless headache inducing pots of mulled wine,. It is also the frugal option, costing less than half the price of the same amount of mulled wine. The very important hidden benefit is that if you have light coloured carpets any spills will be far less apparent. I am always surprised at how few people make it.
As you are going to mull the cider you do not need the most expensive in the supermarket; but avoid the cheapest too, I usually buy the large bottles of supermarket own label traditional strong dry cider, you can splash out on branded but there is no real need.
I made my cider punch in my REDMOND Multicooker RMC4502E (reviewed here), you can of course make this in a large pan on the hob, but using the multicooker will free up a ring on the hob to be used to cook something else if you are entertaining.
Adding the star anise to the punch was an experiment and a revelation, it adds another level of flavour, without being too aniseedy. Even if you are not a fan I do recommend adding just a little. The brandy adds an extra kick – the punch is equally good without.
A delicious alternative to mulled wine.
- 2 litres | 4 pints dry cider
- 2 oranges – cut into quarters
- 100 g | ½ cup white sugar
- 4 allspice berries
- 2 ? piece of cinnamon stick
- ½ star anise
- 250 ml | 1 cup brandy
- Orange and apple slices
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Place all the ingredients into the pot of the REDMOND Multicooker.
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Set the programme to MULTICOOK temperature 80C, time 1 hour.
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Once ready serve or use the keep warm function.
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Serve in glasses with slices of orange & apple and extra cinnamon sticks.
Alternatively put all the ingredients into a large saucepan or stockpot and gently bring to a gently simmer with the lid on over the lowest heat. Cook for half an hour before serving. Or heat, then allow to cool to allow the flavours to infuse then reheat. Easy to make in the slow cooker too - cook on high until simmering, then turn to warm.
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If you prefer mulled wine why not try Katie’s multicooker mulled wine?
This is a recipe commission for REDMOND, I also received a multicooker for review. All opinions are our own and I was not obliged to write a positive review.
Fuss Free Flavours received samples of the La Rochere Versailles glasses shown, which are available from Sizzle -part of Ocado (£5.95 wine and £7.95 water) and ideal for serving the punch in.
Lynn
Ooh, I might have to make my own instead of buying Marks & Sparks’!
Helen
Always make your own Lynn!
Urvashi
I could do with that right now. So so cold!
Helen
It actually was rather good cold too. I’d love a glass right now!
Kavey
Much prefer mulled cider to wine, but I have to have mine super sweet!
Helen
I far prefer the cider, less headache inducing too! I’ll make you your own batch with extra sugar then!
Sarah Maison Cupcake
That sounds great, as I’m not much of a lover of red wine I think I would prefer this. Great use of the multicooker too!
Helen
I think you would love it Sarah. You could also make an apple juice version to for the drivers and children.
Lucy @ BakingQueen74
This sounds ideal, saves money and I particularly like the fact that it doesn’t make a mess on the carpet. In fact I might have to do a few trial runs before Christmas!
Helen
Absolutely Lucy! I am all for trial runs of anything boozy, or delicious!
Sally - My Custard Pie
This is a recent discovery. I agree that it’s great for a crowd and you can use the still box ciders for it – which are often better quality. Lovely pics.
Helen
Thank you Sally. I am loving mulled cider, an excellent winter warmer, and you can vary the spices if you are making it more than once in the season.
Sus @ roughmeasures.com
Anything mulled is a winner in my eyes! Can’t wait to try this recipe out, love the addition of star anise Helen! x
Helen
Perfect for this chilly time of year too. The star anise was a happy experiment, you just want a hint, no more.
Bintu @ Recipes From A Pantry
I am coming round to yours Helen for some of this.
Helen
I’ll get it warming up then Bintu!
Jo of Jo's Kitchen
I love mulled cider especially at Christmas time. Yummy!
Margot @ Coffee & Vanilla
I love cider and spices, why I have never though of that? :) Will definitely give it a go very soooon…
Helen
It is wonderful Margot!
Kate @ Veggie Desserts
This sounds lovely! I love winter cocktails.
Helen
Absolutely. Beautifully warming too.