A Cozy Tradition: Glogg and Its Warm Winter Roots
And a really good recipe for a non alcoholic version #DryJanuary
Glogg, a Scandinavian classic, is a drink steeped in history and tradition and one of my favorite hot drinks to cozy up with every winter. Originating in the 16th century, its name comes from the Swedish word "glödgat vin," meaning "heated wine." Originally crafted as a way to warm up against the frigid northern winters, glogg was typically made with red wine or port infused with a blend of spices, sweeteners, and fruits. Over time, it became a staple of holiday gatherings across Scandinavia, with each region—and household—adding its own twist. Today, glogg remains synonymous with coziness and community, often shared in steaming mugs during festive celebrations.
For those looking to enjoy glogg without alcohol, my recipe offers a delightful alternative, blending the smoky depth of Lapsang Souchong tea with non-alcoholic red wine, fruit juices, and traditional spices. I don’t drink very much anymore, so I really wanted to create a non alcoholic version that I could enjoy. The addition of raisins and toasted almonds nods to glogg’s heritage, while a touch of vanilla and citrus makes it truly special. This version delivers all the warmth, richness, and tradition of the original, and I think that it’s perfect for family-friendly gatherings or quiet winter evenings.
Non-Alcoholic Glogg Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 cups Lapsang Souchong tea (brewed from 2 tablespoons tea leaves or 2 tea bags)
2 cups non-alcoholic red wine
1 cup apple juice (unsweetened preferred)
1 cup pomegranate juice (or cranberry juice for tartness)
1 orange, sliced (plus extra slices for garnish)
1/2 lemon, sliced (plus zest and juice)
1 cinnamon stick
4-5 whole cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (or 2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed)
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
1/4 cup raisins (for garnish)
1/4 cup slivered toasted almonds (for garnish)
Instructions
Brew the Tea:
Brew 2 cups of Lapsang Souchong tea by steeping the tea leaves or bags in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and set aside.Combine Liquids and Spices:
In a medium saucepan, combine the brewed tea, non-alcoholic red wine, apple juice, and pomegranate juice. Add the orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, and ginger.Simmer Gently:
Heat the mixture over low-medium heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the spices infuse evenly.Sweeten and Flavor:
Stir in the vanilla extract and honey or maple syrup, adjusting sweetness to taste. Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a bright finish.Strain and Serve:
Strain the glogg into mugs to remove the spices and citrus slices. Garnish each serving with a few raisins, a sprinkle of slivered toasted almonds, and an orange slice for a festive touch.
This recipe combines the best of tradition and creativity. The Lapsang Souchong tea introduces a subtle smoky depth, beautifully complementing the richness of non-alcoholic red wine and the natural sweetness of apple and pomegranate juices. The warming spices—cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and ginger—create a comforting aroma, while the citrus and vanilla bring a fresh, rounded flavor. The raisins and almonds are a nod to the classic Scandinavian garnishes, adding texture and a hint of sweetness.
Smoky cheese, apple jam and some ginger or molasses cookies make a marvelous snack to enjoy alongside this wonderfully warming drink.
Whether you’re recreating the nostalgia of a medieval wassail or embracing the Scandinavian tradition of hygge, this non-alcoholic glogg is perfect for winter gatherings. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a way to bring warmth and connection into your home, with every sip a reminder of the timeless joy of shared traditions.
So gather your ingredients, brew a pot, and let the inviting aroma fill your kitchen—your own cozy, modern take on a centuries-old ritual.
