MSG Free Spiced Mulled Apple Cider
Warm, fragrant, and deeply comforting, this spiced apple cider is the kind of drink that makes a cold evening feel like a celebration. Fresh apple cider gets a long, slow simmer with Ceylon cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves ā whole spices that build real depth without any shortcuts or additives. A touch of pure maple syrup rounds out the sweetness naturally, so every ingredient in the pot is exactly what it says it is. That matters a lot when you're avoiding flavor enhancers and processed seasonings that can sneak into store-bought versions of drinks like this. The technique is simple: low heat, patience, and a fine-mesh strainer to pull out the whole spices before serving. Finished with a fresh apple slice and a cinnamon stick in the mug, it looks as good as it smells. This is the kind of recipe you'll come back to every time the temperature drops.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more āIngredients
4 servings
- 4 cups fresh apple cider (not fermented or hard cider)
- 2 ceylon cinnamon sticks
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup, or more to taste
For serving
- 2 fresh apple slices, for serving (optional)
- 1 ceylon cinnamon stick, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the apple cider, Ceylon cinnamon sticks, ginger slices, cardamom pods, and cloves in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Warm until the cider just begins to steam and small bubbles form at the edges, about 5 minutes ā do not let it boil.
- 2
Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for 20 minutes, until the cider is deeply fragrant and the spices have fully infused.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!