Mulled Cider (Small Batch)

Want to make a batch of mulled cider that's just the right amount for a quiet evening at home? Here's how!

Mulled cider is great for parties to make in large batches, but what if you want some on a cozy winter evening when your plans are to stay home?

This small batch mulled cider can be made for even just one person. It's simmered on the stovetop, but is also easily made on a campfire or camp stove, making it a perfect drink for cold weather camping.

Tips for Multiplying the Recipe

If you do want to turn this into a recipe for a group, here's a proportion to work with: for a half gallon of apple cider, plan on using about 3 tablespoons of mulling spices.

For larger amounts of mulling spices, it may be easier to use a large tea infuser (instead of a standard size tea ball), or use a drawstring muslin bag (expect some spices to sneak out into the drink if you use a bag).

Camping Mulled Cider Tips

If you want to heat the cider up on a campfire grate, make sure to bring a saucepan or tea kettle that’s campfire safe (with no plastic parts).

For heating up small batches of cider, we like this metal teakettle. For a slightly larger group, this Stanley saucepan is perfect.

Make sure to bring along an oven mitt or heat resistant leather gloves so that you can grab the kettle or saucepan without touching hot metal.

Another great cold-weather camping drink is hot chocolate with peanut butter whiskey!

Where Can I Find Mulling Spices?

This kind of spice mixture is most readily sold in wintertime, possibly even in your local grocery store.

If you're not having success finding them near you, you can always order mulling spices online.

How to Make a Small Batch of Mulled Cider

Start with an apple cider that you like the flavor of (I used Trader Joe's honeycrisp apple cider).

Pour the cider into a saucepan, along with mulling spices in a tea ball or similar infuser, and any other flavorings you'd like, including cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or a peppermint tea bag.

Bring the mixture to a low simmer; then remove it from the heat and let it steep for several minutes.

Take out the mulling spices and whatever extra flavor sources you used, and then pour the cider into your mug!

For more drinks with a cozy winter vibe, try homemade eggnog, chai latte with chocolate, spicy hot chocolate, Kentucky bourbon coffee, or a tea hot toddy.