Now that the weather is starting to get (slightly!) cooler, I'm in the mood for cozy blankets and warm drinks on the sofa. Hot mulled cider is a cold weather favorite here! This version adds the health boosting benefits of blackberry for an even tastier version.
Unlike tart blueberries, blackberries add a milder flavor with musky undertones. It combines very nicely with sweet apples and aromatic spices. You can make it on the stove or cook it in a pot. Either way, it makes the house smell so good!
Tinted apple cider
Apple cider is a traditional fall favorite made with spices and cider. Some recipes also call for the addition of brown sugar, maple syrup, or other sweeteners. I find that once cooked, the apples add a lot of sweetness on their own. Unlike apple juice that has been filtered, cider is richer and tastier.
The same spices also work in summer to make a mulled wine recipe. You can also find my slow cooker apple cider recipe here. This version, instead of using apple cider, uses apple slices cooked in water. I find it easier to make it from scratch when we have plenty of seasonal apples on hand.
Useful spices
Spices not only add flavor, but they have some powerful health benefits. Warming spices support the immune system during the winter months. Aromas like cinnamon, cloves, star anise, cardamom pods and fresh ginger. They are naturally antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal to help prevent winter ailments. Plus, they help us feel warm and cozy.
Spices like cinnamon and cloves have ruby effects, drawing blood to the surface of the skin. More circulation in our outer layer means we feel more mature and refreshed. They also help with digestion (we had a lot of Christmas cookies for those occasions!).
What makes this mulled cider recipe different is the addition of berries. This delivers the antiviral benefits of blackberry syrup, but in a warm flu drink. On their own, berries don't have much flavor, but they enhance the benefits of cider. You can read more about benefits of elderberry here.
Slow Cooker vs Sovetop Mulled Cider
I often make this in my slow cooker so I don't have to keep the baby on the stove. Either version will work, but I recommend cooking with the lid closed. The inviting smell of warm apples and spices wafting through the air adds to the seasonal ambiance. Make it on Halloween or Christmas Day before serving to guests (or your family).
Cider ingredient options
There are so many different combinations and variations you can make with mulled cider. If you have some pre-made spices, feel free to use them along with the blackberry. Some options include:
- whole huckleberry berries
- cardamom pods
- cranberry juice
- slices of fresh ginger
- peppercorns
- cinnamon sticks
- whole cloves
- orange slices or orange peel
- lemon slices
The recipe below is the one I like best, but feel free to change the amounts and ingredients to your preference.
Elderberry Tinned Cider Recipe
This aromatic mulled cider contains the health benefits of berries. A great way to warm up and boost your immune system in the colder months!
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Add the apple cider, berries, fruit slices, and spices to a large pot or Dutch oven.
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Bring to a boil and then reduce to very low heat for one hour.
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Once the cider is fragrant, strain the spices and fruit through a sieve or cheesecloth. These can be composted.
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Pour the cider into glasses, garnish as desired and drink warm.
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Refrigerate leftovers and reheat on the stove before serving or try cold.
Nutrition facts
Elderberry Tinned Cider Recipe
Amount per serving (1 cup)
Calories 159
Calories from fat 5
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.5 g1%
Saturated fat 0.1 g1%
Unsaturated fat 0.2 g
Monounsaturated fat 0.03 g
Sodium 13 mg1%
potassium 367 mg10%
Carbohydrates 39 g13%
Fiber 2 g8%
Sugar 32 g36%
Protein 1 g2%
Vitamin A 55 IU1%
Vitamin C 15 mg18%
Calcium 46 mg5%
Iron 1 mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- You can also do this in a slow cooker. Add the ingredients and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours.
- Do not add unripe and dried berries as a garnish. Berries can cause digestive problems if not cooked first.
Elderberry Cider Garnish
Pull out your favorite mug and add some garnishes if you like. After the cider is cooked and strained, try some fresh apple slices or orange slices. You can also use a large cinnamon stick to stir and add flavor. Or you can turn it into a hot dessert by adding a little rum.
If you want some more berry recipes, try these elderberry gum. My kids love them!
What spices do you like in your mulled cider? Leave a comment and let us know!
