Glogg(Swedish Christmas Punch)
A warm Swedish Christmas punch featuring aromatic spices, fortified wines, almonds, and raisins, perfect for festive gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put dried orange peel, cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a cheesecloth bag.
- Combine grain alcohol, brandy, Port wine, Claret, and granulated sugar in a large stock pot or kettle.
- Place or suspend the cheesecloth bag in the pot.
- Simmer for 15 to 30 minutes.
- To reduce evaporation and improve flavor, cover the pot with a stainless steel bowl filled with ice.
- Serve hot with a few raisins and almonds in each cup.
- Best consumed after the Christmas Eve candlelight service.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of grain alcohol or substitute with vodka. If you can't find sweet almonds, use unsalted roasted almonds instead. To enhance the spice profile, consider adding a few star anise or using fresh orange zest. Make sure to let the mixture steep longer for a richer taste. This recipe can be adapted for a non-alcoholic version by using fruit juices and spices instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Glogg hot in heatproof cups, garnished with a few raisins and almonds in each cup for added texture. It pairs beautifully with traditional Swedish pastries, such as gingerbread cookies or Lussekatter (saffron buns). For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of Pult Or Klub for a cozy holiday gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the alcohol from evaporating. Avoid boiling, as this could alter the flavors. Serve warm, and feel free to refresh the spices with a new cheesecloth bag if desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glogg(Swedish Christmas Punch) contains roughly 448 calories, with 7g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 33g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Glogg ahead of time?
Yes, Glogg can be made a day or two in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove. The flavors often improve after sitting, making it a great option for holiday parties.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of Glogg?
Absolutely! You can create a non-alcoholic version by substituting the alcohol with a mix of fruit juices like grape, pomegranate, or cranberry juice. Add the same spices and allow them to steep to infuse the flavors, making it a festive drink for everyone.
What type of wine works best for Glogg?
A good quality Port wine and Claret are essential for authentic Glogg. If you prefer a less sweet option, choose a dry red wine instead. The combination of flavors from the wine and spices is what makes this drink unique, so select wines that you enjoy drinking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).