Hey friends! I’m so glad we’re all back after that recent email mishap where many messages went missing for a while. Fingers crossed everything stays connected now. I have plenty of Christmas decorating posts coming up (I’m very excited for the season!) and a laundry room update I can’t wait to share. Even if emails occasionally disappear, I’m still here at The Inspired Room and ready to share cozy ideas and recipes with you.
This is my go-to hot drink for fall and winter: mulled cranberry apple cider. It’s warm, comforting and perfect for chilly days. We made a big pot over the weekend because it was freezing here in the Pacific Northwest. Cold weather makes everything feel more festive, and this cider does just that.
Not only does it warm you from the inside, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma. I make it for parties and for quiet evenings at home — it’s always a treat.
Ingredients for spiced cranberry apple cider:
8 cups cranberry juice (not cranberry cocktail)
8 cups good apple cider (fresh, if possible)
2–4 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste
4 cinnamon sticks
A pinch of ground allspice
8 whole cloves
Orange slices for flavor and garnish
In a large pot, combine the cranberry juice and apple cider. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved. Add the cinnamon sticks, a pinch of allspice, whole cloves, and orange slices. Heat the mixture until it nearly reaches a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Before serving, strain out the cloves and cinnamon sticks. If you prefer, leave a cinnamon stick in each mug for presentation.
How to enjoy it:
Grab a pretty mug.
Pour a steaming cup of cider.
Sit in a comfy chair by the fire.
Breathe in the warm, spiced scent.
Sip slowly and savor the moment.
Relax and enjoy — this cider is perfect while decorating for the holidays or simply unwinding after a long day. It pairs beautifully with seasonal tunes and soft lighting to create a cozy atmosphere.
About my book, Simple Gatherings
Welcoming people into your home doesn’t have to be stressful. In Simple Gatherings I focus on authentic hosting, meaningful details and creating experiences that bring people together. It’s not about perfection but about connection and comfort — the things guests remember most.
