When autumn’s cool breath settles in, nothing beats the comfort of a steaming mug brimming with warm spices and sweetness. Traditional mulling spices—think cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and citrus—have long been used to transform apple cider and wine into heartwarming, fragrant drinks. But did you know you can simplify—and supercharge—that ritual? At Full Moon Tea Company, we’re excited to show you how our bold Smoky Cowboy Chai and the new Apple‑achian Chai make perfect, flavorful mulling spices.
Why Chai Works as Mulling Spices
Chai blends already contain many of the classic mulled drink ingredients—warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom—alongside rich black tea leaves. Steeping these spices directly into cider or wine creates a cozy, aromatic infusion that’s deeply flavorful and effortless. Think of it as mulled cider—or even mulled wine—with tea's comfort built in.
Recipe 1: Chai‑Spiced Apple Cider (Non-Alcoholic)
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 heaping teaspoons Smoky Cowboy Chai (with caffeine) or Apple-achian Chai (caffeine-free)
- Optional garnishes: orange slice, cinnamon stick, star anise
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, gently heat the apple cider until it gently begins to steam (don’t let it boil).
2. Add the chai blend, cover, and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain into mugs and garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.
4. Snuggle up and savor the cozy aroma
Recipe 2: Chai-Spiced Mulled Wine (Optional Alcoholic Version)
Ingredients (serves 4–6):
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (e.g., Merlot)
- 2 heaping teaspoons Smoky Cowboy Chai (caffeine) or Apple-achian Chai (caffeine-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- Juice of 1 orange + orange slices, optional
Instructions:
1. Warm wine, chai, sweetener, and orange juice together in a medium pot—heat just until fragrant steam rises (avoid boiling to preserve alcohol).
2. Cover and let simmer on low for 15 minutes—or longer for a deeper infusion.
3. Strain and serve warm. Garnish with fresh orange slices or a cinnamon stick.
4. Cheers to autumn in every sip!
Seasonal Sips, Elevated
Whether you're cozying up on the couch or hosting a fall gathering, these chai-spiced beverages deliver the rich, welcoming flavors of the season with minimal effort. The spices in chai add depth and complexity to classic mulling flavors, while the tea base offers subtle body—and a little caffeine in the non-alcoholic cider version, if using Smoky Cowboy Chai. Looking to keep it caffeine free? Apple-achian Chai is the choice for you!
Bonus Tips
1. Batch-friendly: Make a pot ahead and keep it warm on the stove or in a slow cooker for self-serve sips.
2. Share the warmth: These make fantastic fall gifts—pair a mason jar of chai blend with a favorite cider, tied with a ribbon.
3. Mix & match: Use leftover chai-spiced cider as a syrup for pancakes or dessert glazes—chai-mulled everything is a fall favorite!
Let your teacup be your cauldron—brewing warmth, tradition, and a touch of magic with every sip.
