Do Share Recipe

Slow Cooker Mulled Wine Recipe | Cozy Holiday Drink

I recently tried making slow cooker mulled wine recipe, and I have to say, it was a game-changer! The warm, spiced aroma filled my entire kitchen, and it instantly made me feel cozy. I love that this recipe is so easy to prepare, and my guests could help themselves throughout the evening.

It’s perfect for holiday parties, chilly nights, or even a simple family gathering. If you enjoy comforting, slow-cooked dishes, you might also love trying this flavorful barbacoa bowl recipe for your next meal. Let me walk you through how I make this delicious winter drink.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting slow cooker mulled wine:

1 bottle red wine (750 ml) ~ I prefer Merlot or Cabernet for a rich, smooth flavor.
1/4 cup brandy ~ adds warmth and depth; optional but recommended.
1/4 cup sugar ~ balances the tartness of the wine; you can adjust to taste.
3 cinnamon sticks ~ whole sticks release a gentle, lasting spice.
6 allspice berries ~ slightly sweet and peppery, perfect for depth.
3 star anise ~ gives a subtle licorice flavor that complements citrus.
4 cloves ~ warm and aromatic, enhances the spice blend.
4 cardamom pods ~ lightly crushed to release the fragrant seeds.
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg ~ adds warmth and complexity.
1 vanilla bean, split ~ boosts sweetness naturally.
2 clementines or small oranges, sliced ~ fresh citrus adds brightness.
Fresh cranberries or raisins (optional) ~ tartness or sweetness, depending on preference.

Note: Serves 6–8

Variations

You can easily tweak this mulled wine to match your preferences:

Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
Substitute white wine for a lighter, fruitier option.
Add fruit juices like pomegranate or cranberry for extra flavor.
Use a store-bought mulling spice mix for convenience.
Serve chilled instead of hot for a refreshing twist.

If you’re in the mood for another warm, spiced dish, this hearty barbacoa beef recipe also brings deep flavors and a comforting aroma that pairs beautifully with a cozy drink like mulled wine.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long everything will take:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours on low
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Equipment You Need

Slow cooker ~ gently heats wine without boiling.
Small knife ~ for slicing citrus and splitting the vanilla bean.
Wooden spoon ~ for stirring the ingredients.
Ladle ~ for serving the wine to guests.

How to Make Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice your clementines or oranges, split the vanilla bean, and lightly crush cardamom pods. This helps the flavors infuse the wine fully.

Step 2: Add Wine and Spices to Slow Cooker

Pour the red wine into the slow cooker. Add all the spices, citrus slices, brandy, sugar, and any optional dried fruit.

Step 3: Heat Slowly

Set the slow cooker to low and let the wine warm for about 2 hours. Avoid boiling, as it can make the wine taste bitter.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

After 2 hours, taste the wine and adjust sweetness or spice levels if needed. Stir gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the mulled wine into heatproof mugs or glasses. Garnish with extra cinnamon sticks, citrus slices, or rosemary sprigs if desired.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these little touches make a big difference:

I always choose a wine I enjoy drinking on its own. It makes the end result much richer.
Letting the wine sit in the slow cooker with spices for a bit longer deepens the flavor.
I use fresh citrus and whole spices instead of pre-ground; it really enhances the aroma.
Stir occasionally to prevent spices from sticking to the bottom.
Taste before serving — I often add a little more brandy or sugar at the end.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is fun to serve and looks beautiful:

Serve in heatproof mugs or glasses with knitted cozies for extra charm.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of orange, or a sprig of rosemary.
Perfect for self-serve stations at parties or in thermoses for outdoor events.

Nutritional Information

A rough estimate per serving:

Calories: 180–200
Protein: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15–20 g
Fat: 0 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

You can store leftover mulled wine in the fridge for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker on low. Do not boil to avoid bitterness.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing mulled wine as it can alter the texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this slow cooker mulled wine has become a favorite:

Easy to prepare ~ just mix ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
Perfect for entertaining ~ guests can serve themselves throughout the evening.
Customizable ~ adjust spices, sweetness, and citrus to your taste.
Cozy and festive ~ fills your home with holiday aromas instantly.
Versatile ~ enjoy hot in winter or chilled as a refreshing summer cocktail.

Ben Carraoli