The weather outside if getting frightful so it’s time for some mulled wine! I loved getting mulled wine at Christmas markets when I drank, so of course I had to find a non alcoholic version for the holidays.
This simple recipe can be made by anyone! The most complicated thing you’ll have to do is let it simmer on the stove. It’s basically impossible to mess up.
And the recipe is easy to adjust if you have different preferences. You can use alcohol free wine or juice to get the tart wine flavour, switch out the spices for your preference, and farnish it however you’d like.
I’ve made this recipe every Christmas – and more often in the cold Ottawa winters. My roommate didn’t even realize there wasn’t wine in it!
What is Non Alcoholic Mulled Wine?
Traditionally, mulled wine is a beverage usually made with red wine along with various mulling spices and sometimes raisins. It is served hot or warm and is a traditional drink during winter, especially around Christmas.
It works great in a thermos when you take the family sledding or on long walks with your dog who refuses to pee in the snow.
Non-alcoholic mulled wine, however, is a delightful twist on this classic. It’s a spiced, sweetened, and heated drink that mimics the flavors of mulled wine but without the alcohol content.
This makes it a fantastic option for everyone, including those who don’t consume alcohol, children, or anyone looking to enjoy the festive spirit without the effects of alcohol. It’s all about embracing the warmth, spices, and aromas that are so deeply associated with the holiday season, in a more inclusive way.
It’s also lower sugar than hot chocolate, so it’s a great way to warm up without the sugar rush.
What You’ll Need to Make This
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about the stars of the show – the ingredients. Each one has been thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and spicy:
- Cranberry and Pomegranate Juices: These bring a deep, wine-like richness without the alcohol.
- Orange and Apple Juices: They add a necessary sweetness and fruity notes. I recommend low sugar options, otherwise you’ll want to minimize the sweeteners.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: I love a slightly sweet mulled wine to balance the deep herbs. I recommend a lil maple syrup, but you can use honey too if you prefer.
- Spices and Citrus Peels: Cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and fresh citrus peels create that quintessential holiday aroma and taste.
You can also sub out the cranberry and pomegranate juices for a red wine that’s alcohol free.
I recommend Ariel Cabernet or Moderato Red.
And it’s super easy to make, without messing up a hundred dishes!
All you need is a cutting board to peel the citrus, a large pot to pour everything in, a spoon to stir, and a strainer to filter out the cloves and star anise before you drink it. Then you just need your ideal cups!
I love a clear glass mug like they had at the Germany Christmas Markets I went to daily when I lived in Berlin.
Non Alcoholic Mulled Wine Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Strainer
Ingredients
- 3 Cups Cranberry Juice Or sub out for 1 bottle of alcohol free red wine
- 2 Cups Pomegranate Juice Or sub out for 1 bottle of alcohol free red wine
- 1 Cup Orange Juice No pulp
- 1 Cup Apple Juice
- 2 Tbsp Maple Syrup or Honey
- 3 Cinnamon Sticks
- 4 Star Anise
- 6 Whole Cloves
- 1 Small Piece of Ginger About half a thumb
- 1 Orange Peel
- 1 Lemon Peel
- Garnish Options: Cranberries, Rosemary, Dried Orange Slice
Instructions
- Combine Juices: In a large pot, mix together cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, orange juice, and apple juice.
- Add Sweeteners and Spices: Stir in honey or maple syrup. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, ginger slices, and strips of orange and lemon peel.
- Warm the Mixture: Heat the mixture over low heat. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors and prevent the juices from becoming too concentrated.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. This will infuse the juices with the spices.
- Taste and Adjust: Periodically taste the mulled drink. Adjust the sweetness or spices as needed.
- Strain and Serve: Once you’re happy with the flavor, strain out the spices and citrus peels. Serve the drink warm in mugs or heatproof glasses.
- Garnish: Decorate each serving with a cinnamon stick, a few cranberries, an apple slice, or a sprig of rosemary for added festivity.