How to Make Mulling Spices

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Mulling spices are a blend of spices, typically combining allspice and cloves with a variety of other seasonal ingredients and a touch of citrus. They can be used to spice drinks like cider, wine and even beer — and when simmered in water over the stove, they create an incredibly welcoming aroma throughout any space.

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Mix spices with your favorite citrus for a personalized blend.
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

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Mulling spice blends are easy to find and purchase at the market, but can easily be made at home with a small collection of pantry staples. When bundled or jarred, these fragrant sachets make great gift ideas for housewarming or hostess gifts during the autumn and winter seasons.

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Things You'll Need

  • Cinnamon sticks

  • Whole cloves

  • Whole allspice

  • Star anise

  • Dehydrated apple slices

  • Dehydrated citrus slices

  • Cheesecloth, 6 pieces cut into 4-inch squares

  • Baker’s twine

Step 1

Gather supplies from your pantry, local market or online dry goods supply. The apple and citrus slices can be dehydrated at home either with the use of a dehydrator or by placing the slices evenly across a baking sheet to slowly heat in the oven for 3 hours at 200 degrees, turning halfway through.

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Mulling spices usually include a fruit or citrus component, like apples or lemon.
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

Step 2

Cut cheesecloth into six 4-inch squares. Stack each square to create the base for three mulling spice bundles.

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Double the squares for added durability.
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

Step 3

Combine ingredients and divide among the cheesecloth squares, one each of cinnamon sticks and star anise, a slice each of lemon and apple with pinches of whole allspice and cloves per bundle.

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Enjoy the fragrant smells of the season while making these spice blends at home.
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

Step 4

Gather the edges into a bundle, securing with a piece of baker's twine, finishing with a bow.

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Complete each bundle with a striped piece of baker's twine for a festive look.
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

Tip

Break down the cinnamon sticks and citrus slices if too large to secure within the square bundle.

Step 5

Store spice bags in an airtight container or zipper bag for up to 6 months.

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Finished mulling spice bundles, ready for use or gift giving
Image Credit: Image by Tim & Mary Vidra

Step 6

When ready for use, steep a single bundle over the stovetop in simmering cider or wine for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the bundle before serving as a fragrant seasonal mulled treat. Alternatively, steep in simmering water for 3 to 4 hours to fill your space with holiday aromas.

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Steeping a spice bundle in simmering water fills any space with delightful scents
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Looking for more DIY holiday ideas? Learn how to create a behind-the-door wrapping paper station, or fashion your own modern Himmeli-style tree topper.

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