Spiced Plum Cider (Plommegløgg + Boozy Version)

Spiced Plum Cider is a cozy, warming treat for those cooler days. As the weather turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there's nothing quite like a warm, spiced drink to bring comfort.

 

 

This spiced plum cider combines the tart sweetness of plums with warming spices and a hint of citrus. And if the mood hits you, I of course bring you a boozy version as well. 

 

In Norway, we have some drinks we categorize as "gløgg", which is a very good word to describe warming, spiced, fruity drinks.

 

I usually use the word "mulled" in English, but it's not necessarily the same. Norwegian gløgg is naturally translated to mulled wine, but there's usually no wine in it. Apple gløgg is mulled apple cider.

 

But what is plum gløgg, or plommegløgg? I found there weren't really any good translations, so spiced plum cider it is. Let me know if you have a better name for it. Just like for my poorly named hot orange drink. 

 

 

Oh, and to add to the confusion. Norwegians also associate cider with something alcoholic, which mulled apple cider is not. What a world we live in, right? 

 

But fear not, the most important thing is that they all taste amazing! And there is usually a way to sneak in the booze if you want to, as well. 

 

I will of course provide both a non-alcoholic and a boozy version. Thank me later.

 

Ingredients

 

To make this indulgent, yet bright and cozy drink, the ingredients required include

• Plum juice: The base of this cider, plum juice provides a tart and slightly sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the spices. Plums are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making this cider a tiny bit nutritious as well.
• Honey: A natural sweetener, honey adds depth and a subtle floral note to the cider. It also enhances the warming qualities of the spices.
• Ginger juice: This adds a spicy, zesty kick to the cider, complementing the sweetness of the plums and honey while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Cinnamon stick: Cinnamon is the quintessential warming spice, adding a cozy, sweet-spicy aroma that fills the kitchen as the cider simmers.
• Vanilla bean: Vanilla adds a layer of creamy sweetness and rounds out the flavors, making the cider smoother and more indulgent.
• Orange: Both the juice and zest of the orange contribute a bright, citrusy flavor that lifts the drink and balances the richness of the spices.
• Water: Used to dilute the plum juice slightly, water ensures the cider has the right consistency and isn't too thick.

 

 

For the boozy version, you will also need

• Bourbon: Adds warmth and complexity, with notes of caramel and oak that pair wonderfully with the spices and fruit.
• Homemade plum liqueur: Intensifies the plum flavor and adds a sophisticated twist.
• Orange liqueur: Adds a touch of citrus sweetness and a little extra booziness.

 

Next - you should also try to make homemade limoncello and this creamy limoncello martini!

 

Instructions

 

Prepare the ingredients: Begin by juicing the plums and the fresh ginger if you're making fresh juices (highly recommended). Remove the foam that develops on top when the juice has settled.

 

In a large pot, combine the plum juice, ginger juice, water, and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.

 

Add the spices: Break the cinnamon stick in half and scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean. Add the cinnamon stick, the opened vanilla bean, and the vanilla seeds to the pot.

 

 

Use a vegetable peeler or zester to remove the zest from the orange, and add the zest to the pot. Slice the orange in half and squeeze the juice into the mixture.

 

Simmer the cider: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and taste to adjust the sweetness or spice level as desired.

 

Strain and serve: Once the cider has reached your desired flavor intensity, remove it from the heat and strain out the spices and zest. Serve the cider warm in mugs.

 

For the boozy version: If you're making the alcoholic version, add a shot of bourbon, a splash of homemade plum liqueur, and a dash of orange liqueur to each mug before pouring in the warm cider. Stir to combine and enjoy! 

 

Make sure you also check out Sugar Plum Fairy's Plum Cocktail for Christmas and NYE and Witches Brew Plum Margarita for Halloween!

 

 

 

 

Substitutions

 

• Sweeteners: If you prefer a different sweetener, maple syrup or agave can replace honey. For a sugar-free version, consider using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, although remember that these are much sweeter so you will need to taste and adjust. 
• Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like star anise, cloves, cardamom, or even cayenne, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
• Fruit juice: If plum juice isn't available, you can substitute it with apple juice or a blend of apple and cranberry juice for a different flavor profile. 

 

Variations

 

Because this is a drink with very few ingredients, it's easy to switch things up and it'll end up being a completely different drink. For other similar drinks, you could try this blackcurrant mulled wine, mulled white wine with pear, grapefruit calendula tea, hot orange lime drink, or the more traditional mulled apple cider. 

 

For another bourbon type of drink, try this chai whiskey toddy with orange honey!

 

Equipment

 

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for evenly heating the cider and preventing burning.
• Strainer or cheesecloth: To remove the spices and orange zest before serving.
• Zester: To get the zest from the orange.
• Juicer: If using fresh plums, ginger, and oranges, a juicer will help extract the juice efficiently. If you don't have a juicer, you can blend the fruits and strain the mixture.

 

 

Storage

 

If you have leftovers, store the cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

 

For longer storage, freeze the cider in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

 

Expert tips

 

1. Fresh ingredients: Use fresh plum juice, ginger juice, and freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
2. Don't overheat: Keep the cider at a gentle simmer to avoid boiling, which can make the flavors harsh.
3. Taste as you go: Adjust sweetness and spice levels according to your preference. Start with a little water, and dilute as you go along. 

 

Recipe FAQs

Enjoy!

 

 

Did you like this recipe? Here are more warming drinks I think you would like:

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