Classic Danish Glogg Recipe: A Cozy, Spiced Wine Tradition

Gløgg is a beloved Scandinavian tradition, especially during the cold winter months. It's the perfect holiday drink for cozying up with friends and family, and simmering it fills your house with warmth and festive cheer. In Denmark, gløgg is typically served at Christmas markets and festive gatherings, embodying the Danish concept of coziness: hygge. While it's a "holiday" drink, remember that you don’t have to wait for the holidays to enjoy this drink. You have the freedom to make it anytime you want, creating your own moments of comfort and connection, no matter the season.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste. Gløgg is all about personalization and creating a comforting, festive drink that brings people together.

Whether you’re warming up after a chilly day or looking to add a new tradition to your celebrations, gløgg is a beautiful way to embrace the spirit of togetherness and warmth.

This recipe makes 2 small cups, perfect for sharing on a cozy night in.

Ingredients

For the Glogg

• 1 orange
• 1 1/2 cups / 375ml (1/2 bottle) red wine
• 2 tbsp (24 g) brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1-2 tbsp rum, brandy, schnapps, port, or get creative (optional)
• Raisins and blanched almonds for serving

For Serving

• Add a small amount of raisins and a few blanched almonds to each cup before serving.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glogg

Peel the zest of the orange with a vegetable peeler. Juice the orange and add the zest and juice to a saucepan. Add the red wine, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom to the pan.

2. Simmer the Glogg

Warm the mixture over low heat, making sure not to bring it to a boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.

3. Infuse the Glogg Flavors

Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors are well-infused.

4. Add Extra Alcohol to the Glogg (optional)

Add extra alcohol if using and heat gently for a minute.

5. Add Toppings

Add a small amount of raisins and a few blanched almonds to each cup.

6. Strain and Serve

Strain the gløgg into the cups and serve hot.