**How to Create and Preserve Mulled Cider with a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot**
Mulled cider is an enchanting drink that provides warmth and a sense of comfort, particularly during the colder seasons. This spiced concoction is ideal for social gatherings, presenting a fragrant fusion of tastes that can be effortlessly made using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Here’s a guide on how to craft this tasty beverage, along with some storage suggestions and tips for preparing it in advance.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 gallon of apple cider
– 1 orange, cut into slices
– 5-6 whole cloves
– 3-4 cinnamon sticks
– 2-3 star anise
– Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar, a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
– Pour the apple cider into your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
– Incorporate the orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and any optional items like brown sugar or ginger.
2. **Using a Slow Cooker:**
– Set the slow cooker to low and allow the cider to mull for 2-3 hours. This gives the flavors time to blend wonderfully.
– If time is limited, set it to high and mull for 1-2 hours.
3. **Using an Instant Pot:**
– Activate the sauté function to bring the cider to a simmer.
– Once it reaches a simmer, switch to the “Keep Warm” setting and allow it to mull for approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
4. **Serve:**
– Strain the cider to eliminate the spices and orange slices before serving.
– Dish it out warm in mugs, and savor the aromatic and tasty drink.
**Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:**
Mulled cider is exceptionally handy as it can be prepared ahead of time and saved for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
– **Refrigeration:** Mulled cider stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After making it, let the cider cool, then strain out the spices and store it in a large pitcher or airtight container.
– **Reheating:** When you’re ready to indulge in the cider again, gently warm individual servings on the stove or in the microwave. If you’re throwing a party, you can warm the entire batch in the slow cooker or Instant Pot before guests arrive.
– **Make-Ahead:** If you’re preparing for an event, create the mulled cider a day prior. This not only conserves time on the day of the event but also lets the flavors intensify even more. Just rewarm it before serving.
By adhering to these instructions and recommendations, you can easily double the recipe to suit larger gatherings, ensuring everyone has the chance to relish a cup of this comforting beverage. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply wish to enjoy a warm drink on a brisk evening, mulled cider is an excellent selection.