• by Olde Tradition Spice

For centuries, people have reached for warm, spiced drinks to make cold nights feel softer. Mulled wine shows up in early Roman history, and spiced cider became a winter staple in early America. No matter the place or time, the tradition was simple: warm your drink slowly, add fragrant spices, and let the oh so wonderful aroma drift through the house. Read this article and find out how to use mulling spices!

What Are Mulling Spices?

Mulling spices are whole spices used to flavor hot drinks like cider, wine, or tea. A classic blend includes cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, orange peel, and sometimes star anise. Whole spices release their aroma slowly, which keeps the flavor clean and warm rather than powdery or overly sweet. Many modern blends include sugar or artificial sweeteners, but the best blends are sugar-free and all-natural.

An all-natural mix works well because each spice brings something different. Cinnamon adds warmth. Cloves add depth. Orange peel brightens the drink. When the spices heat together, they turn simple liquids into cozy, nostalgic cups – no sugar needed.

How to Use Mulling Spices – The Basic Method

Universal 4-Step Process

You can mull almost any drink by following the same steps.

1. Measure your liquid.
2. Add one to two tablespoons of mulling spices.
3. Warm it gently. Never let it boil, or the spices can turn bitter.
4. Strain before serving and add your favorite garnish.

This method works on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in a single mug. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low and let the spices steep for at least an hour. For a single cup, place the spices in a tea infuser and let them sit in hot liquid for five to seven minutes.

How Much Spice to Use?

Cider: For one gallon, use one to two tablespoons. Wine: For one 750 ml bottle, one tablespoon is enough. Tea: For four cups, start with one tablespoon. If you like a stronger flavor, add a little more spice or let the drink steep longer. For something lighter, shorten the steeping time.

How to Use Mulling Spices according to Richard, founder of Olde Tradition Spice

Recipe #1 — Classic Mulled Apple Cider

Ingredients + Preparation

Warm one gallon of apple cider with one to two tablespoons of mulling spices. Keep the heat low and let it simmer gently for 20–30 minutes. Strain before serving. Add orange slices or a cinnamon stick if you want a little brightness.

Tips for Hosting & Make-Ahead Serving

A slow cooker keeps mulled cider warm for hours without overcooking it. If you’re hosting a gathering, start the batch an hour before guests arrive. The scent alone makes a home feel festive. For more cozy ideas, visit “Recipes” category page.

Recipe #2 — Cozy Mulled Wine (European-Style)

Best Types of Wine to Use

Choose a dry red wine with a soft finish. Merlot, cabernet franc, or a mild blend works well. You don’t need anything fancy. The spices bring most of the character.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pour the wine into a pot and add one tablespoon of mulling spices. Heat it on low until it’s steaming, then keep it below a simmer. Let it warm for about 15 minutes. Strain and serve in heat-safe mugs.

Optional Sweeteners & Garnishes

If you like a sweeter drink, add honey or a spoonful of maple syrup. Orange slices, cranberries, or a star anise pod make the drink look beautiful for holiday gatherings.

Recipe #3 — Spiced Tea (Herbal or Black)

Perfect for Sugar-Free, Non-Alcoholic Options

Mulled tea is light, comforting, and perfect for people who want something warm without added sugar. Black tea creates a chai-like taste, while herbal teas pair well with citrus.

Simmering Method + Variations

Heat four cups of water with one tablespoon of mulling spices. After 10 minutes, add your tea bags and let them steep. For a stronger chai flavor, use black tea and add a small piece of fresh ginger. For a calming night version, choose chamomile and a slice of lemon.

How to Use Mulling Spices Beyond Drinks

You can simmer the spices in a pot of water to make your home smell like the holidays. The fragrance spreads slowly and fills every corner, creating a warm atmosphere even on an ordinary afternoon. It’s a simple way to bring comfort into your kitchen without lighting a candle.

Creative Ways to Use Mulling Spices

Many people pack the blend into small jars as DIY gifts or tuck it into holiday baskets. It feels personal and thoughtful, and the scent makes the gift memorable. This kind of small gesture works beautifully for teachers, neighbors, or anyone who loves cozy winter rituals. We wrote about how to make cinnamon candles on our blog. Check out the post and get inspired!

What is more, farm markets and orchards often use mulling spices in warm cider samples because the aroma draws people in and encourages purchases. The scent creates a welcoming feeling, which helps customers linger longer and discover new favorites.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Reusability

Whole spices last a long time. When stored in a cool, dry place, they can stay fragrant for years. Use airtight containers and keep them away from sunlight. You can reuse the spices once if you simmer them for a shorter time, but the second batch will have a softer flavor. Whole, all-natural blends tend to outlast powdered mixes because they don’t contain fillers or artificial flavoring.

Why Choose an All-Natural, Sugar-Free Spice Blend?

A clean blend lets you control the sweetness and shape the drink exactly the way you like it. When the spices are whole and free from additives, the flavor stays warm and honest. This matters for guests who prefer sugar-free options or anyone who wants a cozy holiday drink without unnecessary ingredients.

Whole spices also keep their aroma for years, which makes an all-natural blend a smart choice for home entertainers and anyone stocking up for the season. The scent stays rich, the flavor stays pure, and you get a longer shelf life than with powdered mixes. If you want a ready to brew blend that’s simple and reliable, you can find it in our store.

Frequently Asked Questions