Cozy Spice Infusion

Get into the holiday spirit with this warm and aromatic Glühwein, a traditional German mulled wine recipe. As the sweet and spicy fragrance fills the air, you'll be transported to the enchanting Christmas Markets of Germany where this delightful drink is enjoyed throughout the festive season.

Cozy Spice Infusion

Embrace the flavors of the holiday season with this authentic German mulled wine recipe, featuring warming spices and a touch of citrus.

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Ingredients

  • 3 whole star anise
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 cardamom pods
  • 6 cloves
  • 2/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed from 2 oranges)
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 (750ml) bottle of dry red wine (such as pinot noir or merlot)
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • A few cranberries and orange peel for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a pot, combine the star anise, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, orange juice, and sugar. Simmer for at least 10 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the spices release their flavors. If the mixture thickens, add a few tablespoons of water to prevent it from bubbling up.
  2. Reduce the heat to low or transfer the mixture to a crockpot. Add the red wine and orange slices, then cover and simmer on low until hot. Avoid boiling to preserve the alcohol content.
  3. Keep the pot covered on low heat as you serve the Glühwein in mugs.
  4. For garnish, create curly orange peels by peeling an orange with a peeler, slicing the peels into strips, and curling them with your fingers.