How to Make Mulled Cider at Home

As the evenings draw in and the festive season approaches, few drinks capture the spirit of winter quite like mulled cider. Sweet, spiced, and aromatic, it’s the perfect cosy treat for chilly nights, and even better when bottled and shared as a homemade gift.

Whether you’re preparing for Christmas markets, gifting friends, or stocking your home bar, bottling your own mulled cider adds a personal, artisanal touch. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make your own mulled cider, choose the right glass bottles, and store it safely for that perfect seasonal sip.

What You’ll Need to Make Mulled Cider

Ingredients:

• 2 litres of good-quality still cider

• 1 large orange, sliced

• 3–4 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)

• 4–6 cloves

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1–2 star anise

• Optional: a splash of dark rum or Calvados for extra warmth

Equipment:

• A large saucepan

• A ladle

• A funnel

• Glass bottles with airtight lids (such as swing-top or screw cap bottles)

Shop our range of glass drinks bottles — perfect for bottling mulled cider, cordial, or homemade liqueurs.

How to Make Mulled Cider

1. Warm the Cider - Pour your cider into a large saucepan and gently heat over a medium-low flame. Avoid boiling. You want it warm enough to release the aromas, not to evaporate the alcohol.

2. Add the Spices and Fruit - Drop in the orange slices, sugar, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Stir occasionally to help the flavours infuse.

3. Simmer and Infuse - Allow the cider to gently simmer for around 20–25 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.

4. Optional Kick - For an extra festive touch, add a splash of dark rum or apple brandy before bottling.

How to Bottle Your Mulled Cider

To keep your mulled cider fresh and gift-ready, bottling it correctly is key:

1. Sterilise Your Bottles - Always sterilise your bottles before use to ensure freshness and prevent contamination. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water and then placing them in an oven at 160°C for 10 minutes, or by using the boiling water method.

   For more details, see our blog: How to Sterilise Glass Bottles.

2. Fill While Warm (But Not Boiling) - Using a funnel, carefully pour the warm cider into each bottle, leaving a small gap at the top.

3. Seal Securely - Use beer bottles or screw-cap bottles to keep your cider fresh. Once sealed, allow it to cool completely before storing.

4. Add Decorative Touches - Tie a festive ribbon around the neck, add a handwritten label, or attach a cinnamon stick for a rustic homemade finish.

Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

• For best flavour, enjoy within 2–3 weeks.

• Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within a few days.

A Gift That Warms the Heart (and Hands)

Homemade mulled cider is more than just a drink, it’s a warm, thoughtful gift that captures the cosy spirit of winter. Bottled in beautiful glass and wrapped with care, it’s perfect for family, friends, and festive celebrations.

Shop our full range of glass bottles today and start creating your own handcrafted holiday gifts.