Nothing says the Holidays like mulled cider. And it goes great with the Scottish Shortbread (Gluten-Free Option) too. Mulled apple cider has its roots in the British Isles where it has been drunk during holidays and festive occasions for centuries. The hot, spicy beverage was also used to keep warm in the cold winters of Britain. On the continent, wine was more likely added to the recipe.

Mulled cider or wine definitely warms the body during the cold weather. Mulled cider is believed to come from the pagan tradition of Wassailing, which is also the forerunner to caroling. The fascinating history of Wassailing is deserving of a much longer treatment so I’ll get right to the recipe. Keep in mind that ingredients are flexible and tweak to taste.

It's super easy to make this mulled cider either in the crockpot or on the stovetop. I generally use the crockpot as it’s an easy way to also keep it warm.

Though I’ve included the brown sugar, I personally find that the apple cider is sweet enough for me and so don’t generally add it. If you want to avoid straining, put your spices in a tea bag or sachet. If cooking on the stovetop, don’t boil, just simmer.

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