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Cozy Slow Cooker Mulled Wine Recipe with Orange and Cinnamon

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A warm and comforting slow cooker mulled wine infused with orange and cinnamon, perfect for cozy winter evenings and effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel)
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 56 whole cloves
  • 2 whole star anise (optional)
  • 23 tablespoons honey (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Optional: a few slices of lemon or lime for extra zing

Instructions

  1. Wash the orange thoroughly, then slice it into thin rounds about 1/8 inch thick.
  2. Pour the entire bottle of red wine into the slow cooker.
  3. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, honey, vanilla extract (if using), and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water.
  4. Stir gently with a spoon to mix the honey evenly.
  5. Cover and set the slow cooker to the low setting.
  6. Let the mixture warm slowly for 2 to 3 hours, checking aroma and taste after 2 hours.
  7. If desired, add more honey to adjust sweetness and stir gently.
  8. Use a ladle to pour the mulled wine into mugs, garnishing with orange slices and a cinnamon stick.
  9. Optionally strain out the spices for a clearer drink.

Notes

Use whole spices for gradual flavor release and easier removal. Keep the slow cooker on low to avoid boiling and bitterness. Zest the orange before slicing for stronger citrus flavor. Warm mugs before serving to keep the drink cozy. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently without boiling.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled wine, slow cooker, winter drink, orange, cinnamon, cozy beverage, holiday drink, warm wine, easy mulled wine