Jamie Oliver Mulled Cider

There’s something magical about the first sip of Jamie Oliver Mulled Cider—it’s spicy, sweet, and just the right kind of cozy. The warmth of the cinnamon and cloves, paired with citrusy brightness and a whisper of pomegranate, makes this drink feel like a festive hug in a mug. I made this on a rainy evening with friends, and honestly, it surprised me how beautifully all the flavors came together. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 2 liters (68 fl oz) good-quality traditional cider
• 6 cloves
• 3–4 star anise
• ¼ whole nutmeg, finely grated
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 vanilla pod, halved
• Juice of 1 orange
• Juice of 2 clementines
• Juice and seeds of 1 pomegranate
• 4–5 tablespoons caster sugar, or to taste

How To Make Jamie Oliver Mulled Cider

Warm the Cider:
Start by pouring 2 liters of good-quality traditional cider into a large saucepan. Set it over low heat and let it slowly warm up. You’re aiming for it to be gently steaming—not bubbling—so keep the heat moderate.

Add Spices and Juices:
Once the cider is warm, toss in the cloves, star anise, grated nutmeg, cinnamon stick, and your split vanilla pod. Now squeeze in the juice from the orange and clementines, then add the juice and seeds of one pomegranate. This combo gives the cider layers of flavor—bright, spicy, and ever so slightly tart.

Simmer and Infuse:
Turn the heat up just until the mixture begins to bubble, then lower it to a gentle simmer. Let it infuse for 5 to 8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like a festive wonderland.

Adjust Sweetness:
Now for the taste test! Add 4 to 5 tablespoons of caster sugar, or adjust to your liking. Some ciders are naturally sweeter than others, so this part is all about balance.

Serve Warm:
Once everything tastes perfect, ladle the mulled cider into mugs or heatproof glasses. Serve immediately, while it’s still warm and aromatic.

Why I Love This Recipe

I made this Jamie Oliver Mulled Cider during our first real cold snap of the season. It was such a hit—my partner went back for thirds, and even our non-cider-loving friend was converted! It’s clever, comforting, and feels really special even though it’s dead simple to make. Plus, it makes the whole house smell amazing.

Recipe Tips

• Go for traditional cider: Avoid overly sweet or fizzy ciders—look for something traditional and dry.
• Fresh spices matter: Whole cloves, real cinnamon sticks, and fresh nutmeg make a big difference in flavor.
• Pomegranate twist: Don’t skip the pomegranate! It adds a subtle tang and a touch of elegance.
• Make it non-alcoholic: Swap the cider for apple juice to create a kid-friendly version.
• Keep it warm in a slow cooker: Perfect for parties—just keep it on the “warm” setting.

How To Store This Jamie Oliver Mulled Cider

At Room Temperature:
Best enjoyed fresh. If left out, it should be covered and consumed within a couple of hours.

In the Fridge:
Let the cider cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

In the Freezer:
Pour cooled cider into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for it to expand. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave a mug at a time for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 68
• Carbs: 8.6g
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sugar: 8.6g
• Fibre: 0.1g
• Sodium: 0g

Let’s Answer a Few Questions! (FAQs)

Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh fruit?
Absolutely! Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled orange or clementine juice will work in a pinch.

Does this keep its alcohol content after simmering?
It retains some alcohol if simmered gently. If boiled, much of the alcohol will evaporate.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

What’s a good garnish?
A slice of orange, a cinnamon stick, or even a few pomegranate seeds look beautiful floating in the mug.

What if I don’t have star anise?
You can skip it or substitute with a small pinch of fennel seeds for a similar licorice-like note.

Try More Recipes:

• Jamie Oliver Eggnog
• Jamie Oliver Bramble Cocktail