Festive Winter Warmers
As the festive season envelops us in its cozy embrace, there’s no better way to chase away the winter chill than with a steaming cup of seasonal cheer. This month, we're delighted to share two Christmas-inspired recipes that will fill your home with the comforting aromas of the holidays: Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine and Non-Alcoholic Mulled Apple Cider.
These delightful beverages are perfect for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or savouring a quiet moment. Packed with festive spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, they deliver all the warmth of traditional mulled drinks—without the alcohol. But don’t worry, for those who prefer a spirited version, these recipes are easily customisable to suit your preferences.
So grab your favourite mug, gather your ingredients, and let’s toast to a season filled with warmth, joy, and delicious memories!
Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine
Alcohol-free mulled wine is a delightful twist on the classic, swapping out the alcohol for equally flavourful substitutes—often a blend of juices. There are two variations to suit your taste!
One option uses pomegranate and cranberry juice, a perfect choice for the whole family. The second features non-alcoholic red wine, offering a flavour that resembles the traditional version.
Both versions are bursting with festive flavours and warming spices, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a mug or two!
Serves 4
Ingredients
Choose Your Base:
Juice Option:
2 cups pomegranate juice
2 cups cranberry juice
2 cups water
Alcohol-Free Red Wine Option:
750ml non-alcoholic Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon
Brown sugar to taste
Shared Ingredients:
8 cloves
6 blackberries (optional)
1 cinnamon stick
3 star anise
1 orange, sliced
Method
Add all ingredients to a large saucepan and bring to a low boil on medium-high heat.
Turn heat to low and steam for 20-30 minutes.
Pour into a mug and enjoy!
Pictures and recipe courtesy of:https://mindfulmocktail.com/non-alcoholic-mulled-wine-pomegranate/
Non-alcoholic Mulled Cider
Mulled apple cider is a quick and easy winter warmer, blending spiced apple flavours into a cosy, festive drink perfect for any occasion.
Serves 6
Ingredients
250ml water
1–2 tbsp golden granulated sugar (optional, for mulled cider only)
1 orange (halved; one half studded with cloves, the other juiced)
6 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
4 cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1 litre apple cider or apple juice
1 apple (sliced for garnish)
Method
Pour 2 cups of water into a large pan and place it over moderate heat.
If desired, stir in a small amount of sugar, depending on your sweetness preference (no sugar is needed if using apple juice).
Halve an orange and stud one half with cloves. Juice the other half and add both to the pan.
Add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and any other spices, then bring the mixture to a boil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the apple cider or juice and warm the mixture gently until it’s hot but not simmering. Stir occasionally and keep it below boiling point.
Remove from heat, add a few apple slices for garnish, and stir to combine.
Ladle into mugs and enjoy warm!
Pictures and recipe courtesy of:
