Warm Spiced Apple Cider

 

Ingredients

• 1 quart (4 cups) pre-made apple cider
• 1-2tbsp whole Allspice Berries
• 3-4 Cinnamon Sticks (~5" long sticks)
• 2-3 Star Anise

Optional: (pick one)

• Orange slices for additional flavor
• A few cloves or a small piece of fresh ginger for extra spice
• Maple syrup or brown sugar to taste, if you prefer a sweeter cider

Directions

1. Pour the apple cider into a large pot. Add the allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, and star anise into the pot. (If using them, add your optional ingredients now)
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. You don't want it to boil vigorously as this can alter the flavor.
3. Once the cider is simmering, turn the heat down to low and let it simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. This will allow all the spices to infuse their flavors into the cider.
4. Garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick or an orange slice

Optional:

• Transfer to a slow cooker on Warm to keep it warm for guests arriving at different times.
• Rum, Bourbon, or Brandy mix well