A good apple cider recipe isn’t just about what’s in the pot. It’s about the feeling it creates.

Mulled apple cider is fragrant, comforting, and instantly sets the mood. It’s the kind of drink that invites conversation, slows everyone down, and keeps guests warm and cozy long after the mugs are empty.

One of the most memorable times I made this mulled apple cider recipe was around Thanksgiving, shortly after my parents moved to Vancouver. I’m originally from the Philippines, and my family immigrated to Winnipeg, a city with many great things like plenty of sunshine and relatively affordable housing. After five years, I moved to Vancouver on my own for work and never looked back.

After two years of romanticizing my West Coast lifestyle on my social media and in our family group chats (think mild winters and endless summer activities), my family decided to follow and make the move too.

A Thanksgiving to Remember

For our first Thanksgiving together in Vancouver, I made a mulled apple cider recipe adapted from Joanne Chang’s Flour, Too cookbook. Just days earlier, I had gone apple picking with Cynthia (we weren’t dating yet) and a group of friends. Everything about that day felt like a movie scene. The moody fall weather, crisp autumn air, and rows of apple trees made the experience unforgettable. It also happened to be one of those moments where I got to know Cynthia a little better.

Before leaving the farm, I picked up a jug of fresh apple cider, already knowing exactly how I wanted to use it.

What Is Apple Cider?

Apple cider is the unfiltered and often unpasteurized version of apple juice. It’s typically available seasonally since it relies on freshly harvested apples. Compared to apple juice, apple cider tastes more like actual apples and has a naturally cloudy appearance. Apple juice, on the other hand, is filtered and pasteurized, giving it a longer shelf life and a slightly tangier flavor.

There’s no wrong choice here, but for this apple cider recipe, I highly recommend using apple cider. It tastes fresher, richer, and more “apple-forward,” which really shines once the spices are added.

Using apple cider from a local farm made the experience feel even more special. It felt like a true farm-to-table moment, and supporting local producers is always a bonus.

What Makes a Great Apple Cider Recipe?

A great apple cider recipe starts with warming spices. For this one, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and freshly grated nutmeg are essential. Fresh nutmeg has a special place in my heart. Every time I grate it, I’m instantly transported to the holidays.

To balance the sweetness, I add fresh ginger for subtle heat and sliced oranges for brightness. Fresh cranberries are optional, but I love using them for a festive look and a touch of tartness. And there you go! Just put everything in a pot and enjoy the fresh, natural aroma of a warm, mulled apple cider.