National Hot Mulled Cider Day - September 30th, 2024

Oh, the sweet, spicy aroma of mulled cider is in the air! September 30th, 2024, marks the annual celebration of National Hot Mulled Cider Day, and I couldn't be more excited! As the crisp autumn breeze sets in, there's no better way to cozy up than with a warm mug of this fall favorite.

A Brief History of Mulled Cider

Believe it or not, mulled cider has its roots dating back to Ancient Rome and Greece, where people would warm up their wine with spices during the chilly winter months. The tradition was brought to America by European colonizers, who discovered that apples were abundant and easily accessible. Over time, they substituted wine with apple cider, and voilà! Mulled cider was born.

In the United States, mulled cider became a staple at autumn gatherings, harvest festivals, and even Thanksgiving celebrations. The aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg wafting from steaming mugs was (and still is!) a cozy harbinger of the season.

Traditions and Celebrations

On National Hot Mulled Cider Day, people across the country come together to toast the season with this beloved beverage. Here are some ways folks celebrate:

• Apple Picking: Many families and friends head to local apple orchards to pick fresh apples, then return home to press their own cider and mull it up with aromatic spices.
• Cider Tastings: Craft cideries and breweries host tastings and tours, offering unique blends and flavor combinations to mulled cider enthusiasts.
• Fall Festivals: Communities organize fall festivals, complete with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and (you guessed it!) mulled cider stations.
• Cozy Gatherings: Friends and family gather 'round the fireplace or campfire, sharing stories and sipping on warm mugs of mulled cider as the stars twinkle above.

Mulled Cider Recipes to Try

Want to get in on the mulled cider action? Here are a few simple recipes to get you started:

• Classic Mulled Cider: Combine 2 cups of apple cider, 1 cinnamon stick, 6 cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg in a saucepan. Heat until warm, then serve.
• Spiced Cranberry Mulled Cider: Add 1 cup of cranberry juice, 1/4 cup of orange liqueur (optional), and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger to the classic recipe.
• Maple Bourbon Mulled Cider: Mix in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1/4 cup of bourbon (optional), and a pinch of ground cinnamon to the classic recipe.

Whether you're a long-time mulled cider aficionado or just discovering the magic, National Hot Mulled Cider Day is the perfect excuse to cozy up, get creative, and toast to the season with friends and family.

So go ahead, grab a mug, and let the aroma of warm spices and apple goodness envelop you. Happy National Hot Mulled Cider Day, everyone!

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