Mulled wine is the hug-in-a-mug I wait for all year.
It’s warm, spiced, smells like the holidays, and honestly—it’s just cozy happiness you can sip.
Making it in the slow cooker is a total game-changer, too.
It keeps things easy, lets the flavors hang out and mingle, and you don’t have to babysit the stove.
Whether you’re having a quiet evening or a casual holiday hang, this one just feels right.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those recipes I’ve made for holiday potlucks, cozy date nights, and even on a solo evening just because the smell makes me happy. A friend once said, “It smells like Christmas and tastes like a hug.” That about sums it up.
- It’s super low-effort—dump and go!
- Smells like a fancy holiday candle
- Easily doubles or triples for a crowd
- You can make it ahead or keep it warm for hours
- Great for gifting in jars or thermoses
What You’ll Need
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 orange, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional, but lovely)
- 3 whole cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 4 whole star anise
- 5–6 whole allspice (optional but adds depth)
- 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Servings: 6
Cook Time: 2 hours on low
Tools You’ll Need
- Crockpot (4–6 qt size is perfect)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Citrus zester (optional for extra orange flavor)
Pro Tips
- Use a dry wine—not sweet—since the honey or maple syrup will sweeten it just right
- Brandy gives it that classic cozy kick, but skip it if you want to keep things lighter
- Leave the orange peel on for extra citrus oil and aroma
- Strain before serving to avoid surprise spice bits in your cup
- Set the slow cooker to “keep warm” once it’s ready, and it’ll stay perfect for hours
Substitutions and Variations
- No brandy? Try bourbon or skip it completely
- Honey can be swapped for maple syrup, agave, or even brown sugar
- Add cranberries or apple slices for a fruity twist
- Want it extra spiced? Add a few slices of fresh ginger
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge (except the wine). When you’re ready, just pour everything into the slow cooker and turn it on. It’ll fill your house with magic in no time.
How to Make Cozy Crockpot Mulled Wine
Step 1: Slice the Orange
Slice 1 orange into thin, round slices—about 1/4 inch thick. Leave the peel on for extra flavor.
Step 2: Add the Wine
Pour 1 bottle (750ml) of dry red wine into the crockpot.
Step 3: Add the Fruit and Sweetener
Add the orange slices, then pour in 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup).
Step 4: Add the Spices
Drop in 3 whole cinnamon sticks, 6 cloves, 4 star anise, and 5–6 whole allspice. Grate 1/2 tsp fresh nutmeg on top.
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Brandy
Pour in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 cup brandy (if using), stir gently with a wooden spoon.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Set your crockpot to LOW and cook for 2 hours. Once done, set it to WARM to serve.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the mulled wine into mugs through a small strainer, making sure no spices sneak in. Garnish with a fresh orange slice, cinnamon stick, or star anise.
Leftovers and Storage
Let it cool completely, then strain and store in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave—don’t boil or it’ll lose the cozy flavors and the alcohol.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The slow heat from the crockpot helps the spices release their essential oils without making the wine bitter. Cooking it low and slow also prevents the alcohol from evaporating too fast, keeping the depth and warmth in the drink. Orange peel adds natural citrus oils that blend beautifully with the spices.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the wine – If it boils, it can taste sharp and lose its smooth flavor
- Using a sweet wine – Start with dry so you can control the sweetness
- Forgetting to strain before serving – Whole spices floating around aren’t fun in a sip
- Adding too much brandy – A little gives warmth, too much can overpower
What to Serve With
- Cheese board with sharp cheddar and dried fruit
- Gingerbread cookies or biscotti
- Savory appetizers like sausage rolls or puff pastry bites
- Roasted nuts or spiced popcorn
FAQ
Can I make this alcohol-free?
Yes! Use cranberry juice or grape juice instead of wine and skip the brandy. Just reduce the sweetener.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume.
What kind of wine is best?
A dry red like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Zinfandel works best.
Can I keep it warm all evening?
Yes, set your crockpot to WARM and let it sit. Just keep it covered so it doesn’t reduce too much.
