Slow Cooker Mulled Wine. Tell me there’s a better phrase for chilly nights or awkward family gatherings… Nope? Didn’t think so. If you’ve ever tried to keep a crowd happy—or honestly, just want to make your place smell like a holiday shop—this recipe is gold. I used to think mulled wine was some high-fancy task, but let’s be real: the slow cooker makes it easy. No babysitting the stove (or burning the batch, yikes). Grab your ugly sweater, friend, you’re going to want this in your winter arsenal.
Why My Recipe Works
So, let me spill: I’ve tried every which way to make mulled wine, but using the slow cooker? It wins. There are a couple reasons this recipe knocks it out of the park. My trick is to keep the spices floating (use a tea infuser or cheesecloth, trust me). No gritty mouthfuls happening here. Also, slow heating keeps the flavor deep without tipping over into bitter town. You want warmth and a hit of orange, cinnamon, and that almost festive sweetness—not something that tastes like medicine, right? Plus, this slow cooker mulled wine is so hands-off. You can play card games or scroll for memes while it works. I love hosting but hate stressing, so this is my “look like a pro” move even if I’m feeling lazy.
The result is always crowd-pleasing. My friends now ask, ‘Are you making your famous mulled wine again?’ — Can you ask for better feedback?
What is Mulled Wine?
Alright, if you haven’t been to a European winter market (wish I could!), here’s the scoop. Mulled wine is just wine heated with spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness. Historically? Folks drank it to warm up after a frosty day—think skating or snow-shoveling. It’s not snooty. It’s really just comfort in a mug. Traditional spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon give it the “ahh” moment, and oranges or lemons brighten things. My grandpa used to call it “spiced happiness juice,” which feels about right. Oh, and don’t worry—it’s not strong like a hot toddy, but it will make your cheeks rosy if you go for cup number two. Or three. Not judging.
How to Make Mulled Wine in a Slow Cooker
Let’s get to it. Here’s what you need for slow cooker mulled wine (totally normal ingredients, nothing wild or hard to pronounce):
- 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet or Merlot, but whatever’s on sale works)
- ¼ cup brandy (optional, but it adds a little oomph)
- ¼ cup honey or sugar
- 1 large orange, sliced (leave on the peel)
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 5-7 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 1 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- A teeny pinch of nutmeg
- Extra orange slices (for serving)
Stick everything in the slow cooker. Give it a quick stir. Set it on LOW for about 2 hours. That’s it. No simmering, no constant stirring. Just let the flavors mingle. Hit KEEP WARM after 2 hours—don’t boil, or the wine gets gnarly. Fish out the spices and orange slices before serving (unless you like “chunky” mulled wine, then hey, go for it).
Expert Tips
Alright, so you want to knock this slow cooker mulled wine out of the park? Here’s how to sidestep rookie mistakes.
First, don’t shell out for premium wine. Get something you’d drink by the glass but not your “Saturday splurge” bottle. The spices kind of steal the show, anyway. Also, if you’re out of honey, maple syrup or brown sugar totally works. Just taste along the way—some folks like it extra sweet, others prefer light.
Let your spice blend float in a tea infuser or tie it up in cheesecloth. You’ll thank me later, especially during cleanup. Another little nerdy tip: if you add the brandy after the 2-hour cook, it’s a shade stronger (but doesn’t burn off as much).
And, please, if your party’s outdoors or just really … “festive,” keep the slow cooker plugged in on warm. Everyone loves a second (or sneaky third) cup after sledding.
Variations
You can seriously tweak this slow cooker mulled wine a zillion ways. Like, if all you have is boxed wine? Use it. Mixing in cranberries, pomegranate arils, or apple slices takes it to “five-star restaurant” status, at least in my house.
Some old timers swear by adding black peppercorns, which gives a sneaky background heat. If you need it non-alcoholic (maybe for the kiddos, or Great Aunt Gertie), swap in grape juice. Don’t have star anise? Skip it. I’ve even added a splash of apple cider for tartness—a happy “oops.”
Honestly, recipes should fit your vibe. Play around, have fun, and tell me what wild combos you come up with. My cousin put a little ginger in once… Actually a good surprise!
Serving Suggestions
Trying to impress? Or just need an easy win at your next potluck? Here’s how I serve slow cooker mulled wine (because, trust me, presentation’s half the fun):
- Pour into thick mugs or heat-safe glasses for that cozy look.
- Add a cinnamon stick and a fresh orange slice to each cup.
- Set up your slow cooker right on the counter, letting guests serve themselves.
- Pair it with a cheese board or, my secret move, gingerbread cookies.
Everyone thinks it took hours (and honestly, I let them think that).
Common Questions
Can I use white wine for this recipe?
Totally, but it’ll taste lighter. Try sauvignon blanc with pears or lemons.
Is it OK to make slow cooker mulled wine in advance?
Absolutely. Make it up to a day ahead. Warm it up low and slow so you don’t cook off the flavor.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store them in a jar, pop it in the fridge, and re-heat gently. It’s even nice over ice (no judgment).
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yep. Swap the wine and brandy with grape juice or cranberry juice. It’s kid-friendly, and still smells amazing.
How can I avoid bitter flavors?
Never let it boil. Keep that slow cooker mulled wine on LOW or WARM only.
Sip, Savor, Repeat: Try Slow Cooker Mulled Wine This Year
If you want something to wow your friends—or just make a regular Tuesday cozier—this slow cooker mulled wine is my secret weapon. It’s crazy simple, totally adaptable, and turns your home into a festive haven. There are tons of ways to riff on the classic if you want more inspo, just peek at this Crockpot Mulled Wine – Peel with Zeal or the Mulled Wine Recipe {The BEST!} – WellPlated.com. Promise, you’ll never stress about hosting again. Seriously, go dig out your slow cooker—you’ll thank me later.
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bottle bottle of red wine (Cabernet or Merlot) Use whatever’s on sale.
- ¼ cup brandy Optional, adds oomph.
- ¼ cup honey or sugar Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used as substitutes.
- 1 large orange, sliced Leave on the peel.
- 2-3 sticks cinnamon
- 5-7 whole cloves
- 2 pieces star anise Can be omitted.
- 1 teaspoon allspice Optional.
- a teeny pinch nutmeg
- extra slices orange (for serving)
Instructions
Preparation
- Stick all ingredients in the slow cooker and give it a quick stir.
- Set the slow cooker on LOW for about 2 hours.
- After 2 hours, hit KEEP WARM. Do not boil.
- Fish out the spices and orange slices before serving.
