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–+ servings

Sweet + Spiced Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Just throw everything in your slow cooker and enjoy the sweet cinnamon fragrance while this mulled wine creates a delicious holiday blend perfect for a party or a cozy night in.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (at least 3 quarts; 6 quarts if doubling the recipe)
  • Citrus zester or grater
  • Juicer
  • Ladle

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle red wine (pick a moderately dry variety)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 orange
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (plus additional for garnish)
  • 1 star anise
  • 5 cloves
  • 1/4 cup apple brandy (optional, or try another flavored brandy)

Instructions

  • Prep the orange.  Zest the orange and set the zest aside. Then, cut the orange in half. Juice one half and add the juice to the slow cooker. Next, slice the remaining half into thin rounds and set them aside for garnish.
    1 orange juice zested
  • Add the ingredients.  Add the wine, granulated sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and brandy (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Cover and cook on low for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to blend.
    slow cooker filled with wine topped with orange slices and cinnamon sticks
  • Serve.  Ladle the warm mulled wine into mugs. Garnish each mug with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick, if desired, for an extra festive touch.
    2 clear mugs with mulled wine

Notes

For a balanced taste, a moderately dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.  Avoid sweet wines since the sugar and spices will already bring enough sweetness.
A full-bodied wine will give you a richer flavor, perfect for mulled wine.  If you want a lighter version, add a little apple cider to balance the flavors without losing the warmth from the spices.
Using whole spices, like cinnamon sticks and cloves, is best for this recipe since they release their flavor slowly and don’t make the drink bitter.  Avoid ground spices because they can make the wine grainy and too strong.
Keep some extra slices of fresh orange or a couple of whole cinnamon sticks to garnish.  This will make each mug look festive and let your guests enjoy the aroma as they drink.
If you want a more complex flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, a couple of cardamom pods, or a splash of cranberry juice.  A few slices of fresh ginger can also give the drink a warm kick.
You might also consider adding a small rosemary or thyme sprig for a mild herbal taste.  Remember to take it out before serving since the flavor can weaken over time.
Try using a tablespoon of honey instead of some sugar for a different kind of sweetness.  Honey adds excellent depth and pairs well with the spices.

Nutrition

Calories: 183kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 246mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 66IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg
Servings: 5 people
Calories: 183kcal
Author: Katie Shaw