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Irresistible Mulled Wine Recipe for the Perfect Friendsgiving

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This mulled wine recipe is warm, inviting, and perfect for Friendsgiving. With vibrant flavors, festive aroma, and simple ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle of dry red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 orange, sliced into rounds (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole cloves
  • 3 star anise
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup brandy (optional, but adds a lovely kick)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider (optional for extra sweetness and depth)

Instructions

  1. Slice the orange into rounds and measure out your spices and sweetener. If youโ€™re using apple cider or brandy, set those aside.
  2. Pour the wine into a medium pot. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sweetener. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Set the pot over low heat and warm the wine slowly. You want it to be warm but not boilingโ€”aim for a gentle simmer. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
  4. If using apple cider or brandy, stir them in once the wine is warm. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Give the wine a quick taste and adjust the sweetness or spices as needed. If itโ€™s too strong, add a splash of water or more apple cider.
  6. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices, or leave them in for a rustic look. Ladle the wine into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

Notes

[‘Choose a wine you enjoy drinking but donโ€™t feel the need to splurge. The spices and citrus will take center stage.’, ‘Keep the heat low to avoid boiling the wineโ€”it can turn bitter if overheated.’, ‘You can prepare the wine in advance and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits.’, ‘For a vegan version, swap honey for maple syrup.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled wine, Friendsgiving, holiday drink, spiced wine, festive drink, warm beverage, easy recipe, holiday recipe, cozy drink