Danish Christmas Glogg

18. December 2024

There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of Danish Christmas Glogg to capture the spirit of the holiday season. This spiced mulled wine, a staple in Denmark, is more than just a drink—it’s a tradition steeped in hygge, the Danish concept of comfort, connection, and well-being. (If you prefer a non alcoholic version there are tips in the recipe on how to make that.)

Whether enjoyed with family after a day in the snow or shared among friends at a festive gathering, gløgg is a symbol of togetherness, inviting everyone to slow down and savor the joys of the season.

The Origins of Glogg

The tradition of glogg can be traced back to mulled wine recipes from medieval Europe, where spices and honey were used to preserve and enhance wine. Over time, each culture put its unique spin on the beverage, and in Denmark, glogg became a cherished holiday tradition.

Today, glogg is enjoyed in two main forms: white glogg, made with white wine, and dark glogg, crafted with red wine and sometimes a touch of rum or aquavit. Both are infused with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, creating a drink that’s as aromatic as it is comforting.

Hygge in Every Sip

At its heart, glogg embodies the essence of hygge. It’s not just about the drink itself but the moments it creates—gathering around a warm table, sharing stories, and savoring life’s simple pleasures.

Picture this: candles flickering softly, the spicy aroma of gløgg filling the room, and the gentle hum of conversation among loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or simply enjoying the quiet of winter, gløgg turns an ordinary moment into something special.

Pairing Glogg with Aebleskiver

No Danish glogg experience is complete without aebleskiver, the beloved round pancake balls often served alongside this festive drink. Aebleskiver are golden and fluffy, traditionally sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with a dollop of jam.

The pairing of warm, spiced glogg and sweet, tender aebleskiver is a match made in holiday heaven. Together, they create a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a must-have at any holiday gathering.

Creating Your Own Glogg Tradition

While the recipes for glogg vary, the tradition is easy to bring into your own home. Here’s how you can create your own glogg hygge this season:

  1. Make it a Ritual: Dedicate an evening to making glogg with loved ones. Enjoy the process of warming the wine, adding the spices, and letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
  2. Set the Scene: Light candles, play festive music, and gather cozy blankets for a true hygge atmosphere.
  3. Serve with Treats: Pair your glogg with aebleskiver, homemade cookies, or a slice of spiced cake to complete the experience.

A Warm Tradition to Share

In Denmark, glogg is more than a drink—it’s a way to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories. By sharing this tradition with your family and friends, you’re embracing the spirit of hygge and spreading warmth and joy during the holiday season.

So this year, take a page from the Danish playbook. Make a batch of glogg, gather your loved ones, and let the holidays be filled with cozy moments, delicious treats, and the magic of togetherness. Skål!

You will need

  • 1 bottle of red wine (750 ml)
  • 1/2 cup dark rum
  • 1 cup blackcurrant juice or elderberry juice or cherry juice
  • 1/4 cup good quality honey (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4–6 whole cloves
  • 2–3 star anise
  • 1 small piece of fresh ginger, sliced
  • Zest of 1 orange (use strips of zest, avoiding the white pith)
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds

For Serving:

  • Additional slivered almonds and raisins (optional)
  • Orange slices or a cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Rum and Spices:
    In a large pot, combine the dark rum, blackcurrant or cherry juice (if using), brown sugar or honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, ginger, and orange zest. Heat gently over medium-low heat, allowing the rum to infuse the spices and dissolve the sugar. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes.
  2. Add Raisins and Almonds (Optional):
    Stir in the raisins and slivered almonds, letting them soak up the rich, spiced flavors as the mixture simmers.
  3. Add the Red Wine:
    Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the red wine. Stir gently and warm the mixture until heated through, being careful not to let it boil. This step preserves the flavor and alcohol content of the wine.
  4. Strain and Serve:
    Strain the gløgg to remove the spices, orange zest, and ginger. Ladle the warm gløgg into mugs or heatproof glasses.
  5. Garnish:
    Add a few raisins and slivered almonds to each glass for texture, and garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick for a festive touch.

Tips:

  • This technique creates a deeper flavor profile by infusing the spices with the rum while keeping the wine fresh and aromatic.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, use grape juice or blackcurrant juice for the wine and apple juice in place of the rum.

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