Start by preparing the flavoring ingredients. Thoroughly scrub the orange under hot running water. Dry it with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, cut the orange in half. Slice one half into thin slices about 0.5 cm thick. Squeeze the juice from the other half into a small bowl. Peel the ginger root using a small knife or the edge of a teaspoon (this is a very effective method!), and then slice it into thin pieces.
Description
Spiced Apple-Cranberry Mulled Drink is an aromatic, warming non-alcoholic beverage, perfect for chilly autumn and winter evenings. Its deep ruby color and the scent of cinnamon, cloves, and orange wafting through the house instantly create a festive atmosphere. The flavor is perfectly balanced – the sweetness of apple juice is complemented by the tartness of cranberries and a citrus note of orange, all enhanced by warm, spicy seasonings. Inspired by traditional European mulled drinks, this beverage is a wonderful family-friendly alternative. It can be served at gatherings with friends, during Christmas Eve, or simply to enjoy while relaxing with a book. It is not only delicious but also visually appealing, especially when garnished with a slice of orange and a cinnamon stick.
Ingredients (9)
- Sok jabłkowy naturalnie mętny 1000 ml
- Sok żurawinowy 100% 500 ml
- Orange 1.3 szt.
- Fresh ginger 20 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Cinnamon stick 3 szt.
- Whole cloves 2 g
- Star anise 0.4 szt.
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- wildflower honey 40 g
- Fresh cranberry 50 g
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Preparation steps
In a large pot with a thick bottom (at least 3 liters), combine the liquid ingredients. Pour in 1000 ml of apple juice and 500 ml of cranberry juice. Then add the prepared ingredients: orange slices, freshly squeezed orange juice, and ginger slices. Finally, toss in the spices: two cinnamon sticks, about 10-12 whole cloves, and two star anise.
Place a pot on the stove over medium heat. Slowly heat the mixture, stirring gently from time to time. Watch the drink – when small bubbles begin to form at the edges of the pot and steam starts to rise from the surface, immediately reduce the heat to the minimum. The drink should be very hot, but it must not boil.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the drink gently heat on the lowest burner setting for about 20-25 minutes. This process, known as hot maceration, will allow the spices to release their full aroma and flavor, which will infuse into the juices. After this time, your home should be filled with a wonderful, spicy scent.
Turn off the heat. Using a spoon, carefully taste the drink to assess its sweetness. If the juices were sweet enough, it may not require any sweetening. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, now is the time to add honey or maple syrup. Add 1-2 tablespoons, mix thoroughly until completely dissolved, and taste again. Add gradually until you reach your perfect balance.
Prepare heat-resistant mugs or glasses. Place a small fine-mesh strainer on top of them. Using a ladle, pour the hot mulled wine through the strainer directly into the containers. This will ensure the drink is clear, without pieces of ginger and small spices. Finally, decorate each serving. You can add a fresh slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or toss in a few fresh cranberries for color. Serve immediately while hot.
Fun Fact
Non-alcoholic mulled drinks, like this one, are extremely popular at German and Austrian Christmas markets, where they are called 'Kinderpunsch' (punch for children). This is proof that everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy the festive, spiced flavor.
Best for
Tips
Serve the drink very hot, in thick-walled mugs or glasses with handles, to keep its temperature for as long as possible. You can add a fresh slice of orange studded with a few cloves and a cinnamon stick to each mug for decoration and extra aroma. For an adult version, you can add 30-50 ml of dark rum, brandy, or amaretto per serving, right after heating, directly into the mug.
Leftover mulled wine (after straining out the spices) can be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed jar or bottle for up to 3 days. Before serving, simply reheat it gently in a pot, without bringing it to a boil. The flavor often becomes even deeper and more complex the next day.
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