Hey friends!
Are you in the mood for something warm and cozy? I’ve got a treat for you!
Today, I’m sharing my recipe for authentic German mulled wine, or as we call it, Glühwein.
This drink is perfect for chilly nights and holiday gatherings.
It’s packed with spices, a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of warmth.
Let’s dive into this festive beverage! Cheers! 🍷✨
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
For those seeking a non-alcoholic version, the Merlot red wine can be replaced with unsweetened cranberry or grape juice. This substitution maintains a deep, fruity flavor profile while making the drink suitable for all ages. Adjust sweetness with additional apple juice or optional sweeteners as needed. Cloudy apple juice can be substituted with clear apple juice or apple cider, offering similar flavors with slight variations in texture. For a lower-sugar option, consider using a sugar-free apple juice alternative. The optional alcohol additions can be omitted entirely or replaced with alcohol-free extracts like rum or almond extract for added complexity without the alcohol content. Use these extracts sparingly, as they are highly concentrated. These substitutions allow for a more inclusive beverage that retains the warming spice blend characteristic of traditional Glühwein.
| Preparation Time | 15-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1800-2100
- Protein: 5-10 g
- Fat: 0-5 g
- Carbohydrates: 200-250 g
Ingredients
- 3 bottles of merlot red wine
- 0.75 liters (25 oz) cloudy apple juice
- 1 organic orange, sliced
- 1/2 organic lemon, sliced
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 star anise
- 6-8 whole cloves
- 5 cardamom pods
- Nutmeg, to your preference
- Ginger, to your preference
- Optional: brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey
- Optional: rum, spiced rum, amaretto, grand marnier, or another alcohol
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
Start by cutting the orange and lemon into slices.
Then, cube the apple into bite-sized pieces.
These fruits will add a fresh and flavorful base to your Glühwein.
Step 2: Combine Fruits and Spices
In a large pot, add the sliced oranges and lemons along with the cubed apples.
Incorporate the spices: cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger.
These spices will infuse the Glühwein with warm and aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour the red wine and unfiltered apple juice over the fruits and spices mixture.
For added sweetness, you may introduce your choice of brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey.
Stir to integrate these components thoroughly.
Step 4: Infuse the Flavors
Place the lid on the pot and store it in a cool place.
Allow the mixture to rest for at least a few hours, preferably overnight.
This resting period enables the fruits and spices to meld beautifully with the wine and juice.
Step 5: Heat and Serve
When it’s time to serve, gently heat the Glühwein on the stovetop, ensuring it becomes hot yet doesn’t boil—this helps retain the alcohol content.
Once heated, serve the delicious Glühwein in cups, with the option to include or exclude the soaked fruits.
Step 6: Add an Extra Kick (Optional)
For an enhanced flavor, consider adding a shot of rum, spiced rum, Amaretto, Grand Marnier, or your choice of additional alcohol to the cups before serving.
Elevate your Glühwein experience with this delightful twist, then sit back and enjoy!
