500mlcherry juiceor orange juice or cranberry juice (2 cups)
5cloves
2cinnamon sticks
2star anise
2tablespoonsbrown sugaror honey
1lemonsliced
1tablespoonlemon juice
1teaspoonvanilla extract
Optional: 2 ounces rum
Instructions
Add all ingredients to a large pot over a medium/low heat.
Allow the glühbier to heat up just to simmering, but do not boil (or you’ll boil away the alcohol!).
Turn the heat down to low and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat.
The beer you use will determine the sweetness of the finished gluhbeir. Taste it and if you like it sweeter then add more sugar, or less sweet add a little more lemon juice.
Strain or spoon out the spices. Serve warm.
Notes
Gentle Simmer: Maintain a low simmer when heating the Glühbier. Boiling can alter the flavor and, more importantly, affect the alcohol content.
Taste and Adjust: The sweetness can be subjective. Taste the brew before serving and adjust the sugar or lemon juice accordingly. It's all about finding your perfect balance.
Strain with Care: When removing the spices, do it with care. A fine-mesh strainer works well, or simply use a slotted spoon. You want to keep the liquid clear while bidding farewell to the spices.
Experiment Freely: Gluehbier is forgiving. Feel free to experiment with proportions and ingredients. Make it your own by adding personal touches, and don't be afraid to get creative.