If you're looking for a festive holiday drink that brings warmth, spice, and a touch of old-world charm, this Swedish glögg recipe is a must-try. Glögg is a traditional Scandinavian mulled wine enjoyed throughout Sweden during the Christmas season, especially on St. Lucia Day and Advent weekends. It’s a cozy, aromatic beverage that fills your home with the scent of cardamom, cinnamon, and citrus peel—perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet winter evenings.
🍷 What Is Swedish Glögg?
Glögg (pronounced “gluhg”) is Sweden’s version of spiced mulled wine, typically made with red wine, brandy or vodka, warming spices, and sweeteners. It’s often served hot with raisins and blanched almonds in each cup, making it both a drink and a treat. This traditional Scandinavian drink is similar to German Glühwein, but with its own unique blend of flavors.
🧣 Lula Grove’s Homemade Glögg Recipe
This easy homemade glögg recipe is inspired by classic Swedish holiday traditions and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s perfect for making ahead and reheating when guests arrive—or when you need a little hygge in your day.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
- 1/2 cup brandy or vodka
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 10 whole cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 10 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- Peel of 1 lemon or orange (avoid the bitter white pith)
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins and 1/4 cup blanched almonds for serving
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, spices, and citrus peel. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to create a spiced syrup.
- Add the red wine and brandy. Warm over low heat—do not boil, as this will evaporate the alcohol and dull the flavor.
- Let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for a deeper infusion. Strain before serving.
- Serve hot in mugs or heatproof glasses. Add a few raisins and almonds to each cup for a traditional Swedish touch.
🎄 Tips for Serving Swedish Glögg
- Pair glögg with Swedish gingerbread cookies (pepparkakor), saffron buns (lussekatter), or Lace Roll-Ups from the Lula Grove Recipe Box.
- For a non-alcoholic glögg, substitute the wine and spirits with blackcurrant juice, grape juice, or apple cider, and skip the brandy.
- Make a batch ahead and gently reheat—your home will smell like a Scandinavian Christmas market.
Why You’ll Love This Glögg Recipe
This easy glögg recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to explore Nordic holiday traditions or add a European twist to their seasonal celebrations. Whether you're hosting a Christmas party, planning a winter solstice gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet night by the fire, Swedish glögg brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of Scandinavian elegance to your table.
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