It's Mulled Cider Season!
There's something magical about the aroma of mulling spices simmering on the stove. Cinnamon, cloves, citrus, and ginger fill the air, turning an ordinary afternoon into something warm, comforting, and unmistakably festive.
Today, we're sharing one of our favorite recipes.
Our MEGAN & CO. Mulling Spice Blend has been one of our most requested seasonal recipes. Although we haven't produced it for the past couple of years, we thought this season was the perfect time to pass it along for you to enjoy at home.
Along the way, let's explore the rich history of mulling spices, discover creative ways to use them, and celebrate one of winter's most comforting traditions.
A Brief History of Mulling Spices
The tradition of warming beverages with aromatic spices stretches back thousands of years.
Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and other warming spices were once among the world's most prized commodities, traveling ancient trade routes from Asia into Europe and beyond. Their rich flavors and inviting aromas made them treasured ingredients in both cooking and traditional herbal practices.
By the Middle Ages, spiced wines had become a beloved winter tradition throughout Europe. During long, cold winters, families gathered around warm beverages infused with fragrant spices that transformed simple ingredients into festive celebrations.
As the spice trade expanded during the Renaissance, mulled wine, cider, and ale became symbols of hospitality and celebration.
When these traditions reached North America, they evolved to include locally available apples, creating the comforting mulled cider that many families continue to enjoy today.
Today, mulling spices remain one of the simplest ways to fill a home with the unmistakable scents of the holiday season.
Beyond Mulled Cider
Although mulled cider is the classic choice, these aromatic spices can be enjoyed in countless ways.
Warm Seasonal Beverages
Add your mulling spice blend to:
- Apple cider
- Herbal teas
- Hot chocolate
- Chai
- Mulled wine (for those who enjoy it)
- Warm grape juice or cranberry juice
Each creates its own unique expression of the season.
Cozy Desserts
Mulling spices pair beautifully with:
- Apple crisp
- Pear desserts
- Pumpkin bread
- Ginger cookies
- Rice pudding
- Baked oatmeal
- Spice cakes
Even a pinch added to whipped cream can create a festive finishing touch.
Savory Cooking
These spices aren't reserved for desserts.
Try adding them to:
- Beef or pork roasts
- Braised vegetables
- Winter soups
- Squash dishes
- Holiday stuffing
- Slow-cooked stews
The combination of cinnamon, peppercorn, citrus, and cloves adds wonderful depth to savory meals.
Homemade Infusions
Create your own:
- Infused honey
- Simple syrups
- Simmer pots
- Vinegars
- Holiday cocktail syrups
- Fruit compotes
The possibilities are nearly endless.
Thoughtful Holiday Gifts
One of my favorite uses for mulling spices is sharing them with others.
A simple jar of spices has a wonderful way of becoming an invitation to slow down, gather together, and enjoy the season.
Here are a few favorite gift ideas:
Decorative Spice Jars
Package your spice blend in a glass jar tied with ribbon or twine. Add a handwritten recipe card for an extra personal touch.
Holiday Gift Baskets
Pair mulling spices with:
- Local honey
- Apple cider
- Herbal tea
- Handmade mugs
- Cozy blankets
- Wooden honey dippers
It's an easy gift that encourages moments of comfort and connection.
DIY Mulling Spice Kits
Measure individual spice packets and include brewing instructions so recipients can create their own blends at home.
Handmade Ornaments
Fill clear ornaments with whole spices for a beautiful holiday decoration that becomes a practical gift after the season.
Reusable Cloth Bags
Package spices in festive cotton bags for an eco-friendly presentation that can be reused year after year.
MEGAN & CO. Mulling Spice Blend
As promised, here's the recipe we've shared with customers for years.
Ingredients
- 25 parts Cinnamon Chips
- 10 parts Ginger Root
- 7½ parts Orange Peel
- 5 parts Star Anise
- 2½ parts Black Peppercorns
- 2½ parts Clove Buds
- 2½ parts Allspice Berries
- 2½ parts Cardamom Pods
Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight container away from heat and light.
To prepare, add approximately 1–2 tablespoons of the blend to a half gallon of apple cider (or adjust to taste), gently heat for 20–30 minutes, strain if desired, and serve warm.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the most meaningful traditions are also the simplest.
A simmering pot of mulled cider has a way of slowing us down, inviting conversation, and filling our homes with memories that last long after the season has passed.
Whether you're making this blend for yourself or sharing it as a thoughtful handmade gift, I hope it brings warmth, comfort, and a little extra joy to your holiday celebrations.
Happy mulling!
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational and culinary purposes only. If using herbs or spices for wellness purposes, consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new herbal regimen, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or managing a medical condition.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Megan, a clinical herbalist, educator, and founder of MEGAN & CO. Apothecary in Spirit Lake, Iowa. I help individuals support their body's natural processes through personalized herbal formulations, nutrition, and traditional Western herbalism. My passion is empowering people with practical herbal knowledge while honoring both traditional wisdom and modern research.