Now that the weather is starting to turn (a little!) colder I have cozy blankets and Hot drinks on the sofa. Fresh mulled cider is a cold-weather favorite around here! This version adds the health-boosting benefits of elderberries for an even sweeter version.
Unlike tart cranberries, elderberry adds a mild flavor with musky undertones. It pairs perfectly with sweet apples and aromatic spices. You can make it on the stove or cook it in a clay pot. Either way, it makes the house smell great!
Boiled apple cider
Apple cider is a traditional fall favorite made with spices and cider. Some recipes call for adding brown sugar, maple syrup, or other sweeteners. I find that apples add a lot of sweetness on their own once cooked. Unlike distilled apple juice, cider is richer and more flavorful.
To make one, the same spices are used in wine Bottled wine preparation. You can also find my slow cooker. Apple cider recipe over here. This version, instead of using apple cider, uses apple slices boiled in water. I find it’s easier to make from scratch when we have plenty of seasonal apples on hand.
Useful spices
Spices not only add flavor but also have some powerful health benefits. Warm spices support immunity in winter months. Flavors like cinnamon, clove, star anise, cardamom pods and fresh ginger. They are anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal in nature to prevent winter illness. They also help us feel warm and comfortable.
Spices like cinnamon and cloves draw blood to the surface of the skin. More circulation in our outer layer means we feel more refreshed and rejuvenated. They also aid digestion (we had one too many Christmas cookies for those times!).
What makes this mulled cider recipe different is the addition of elderberries. This gives elderberry syrup cold-fighting antiviral benefits, but in a warm drink. They don’t have much flavor on their own, but they add to the benefits of syrinx. You can read more about it Elderberry benefits over here.
Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop bottled cider
I often make this in my slow cooker so I don’t have to baby it on the stove. Either version will work, but I recommend cooking with the lid off. The warm scent of apples and spices wafting through the air adds to the mood of the season. Make it on Halloween or Christmas before serving to guests (or your family).
Cider ingredient options
There are so many different combinations and variations you can make with cider. If you have pre-made spice rubs, feel free to use them with elderberries. Some options include:
- Whole fruits of allium
- Cardamom capsules
- Cranberry juice
- Fresh ginger slices
- Pepper twigs
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Orange slices or orange peel
- Lemon slices
The recipe below is my favorite, but feel free to change the amounts and ingredients to your liking.
Elderberry Mulled Cider Recipe
This aromatic mulled cider showcases the health benefits of elderberries. A great way to warm up and boost your immune system during the colder months!
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, add apple cider, elderberries, fruit slices and spices.
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Bring to a boil and simmer on very low heat for an hour.
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Once the cider is fragrant, strain the spices and fruit through a strainer or cheesecloth. These can be compost.
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Pour the dish into a pitcher, garnish as desired and drink hot.
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Refrigerate leftovers and reheat oven before serving.
Nutrition facts
Elderberry Mulled Cider Recipe
Per serving size (1 cup)
Calories 159
Calories from fat 5
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.5 g1%
Saturated fat 0.1 g1%
Polyunsaturated fat 0.2 g
Monounsaturated fat 0.03g
Sodium 13 mg1%
Potassium 367 mg10%
Carbohydrates 39 g13%
Fiber 2 g8%
Sugar 32 g36%
Protein 1 g2%
Vitamin A 55IU1%
Vitamin C 15 mg18%
Calcium 46 mg5%
Metal 1 mg6%
* Percent daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- You can make this in a slow cooker. Add the ingredients and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours.
- Do not add unripe, dry old people as a decoration. Elderberries can cause digestive problems if not ripened early.
Elderberry cider garnish
Pick out your favorite mug and add a few decorations if you like. After the cider is cooked and strained, try some fresh apple slices or orange slices. You can even use a large cinnamon stick to stir and add flavor. Or you can make hot toddy by adding a little rum.
If you want some more recipes for seniors, try these Elderberry gummies. My kids love it!
What spices do you like in your mulled cider? Leave a comment and let us know!
