spiced cider

Ingredients

1 gallon apple cider (NOT apple juice)

2 cinnamon sticks

5ish cloves

10ish allspice berries

4-5 grates of whole nutmeg (optional)

10ish green cardamom pods

1 orange, sliced about 1/2 inch thick

Bourbon or spiced rum (optional)

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a large pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium low and mull until the room is fragrant and the cinnamon sticks have started to unfurl, 30-60 minutes. I like to heat cider low and slow for maximum flavor development.

Strain out spices and orange slices. Serve hot, with a splash of bourbon or rum (or both!)

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About this recipe

When I was a kid, my family would often make spiced cider for winter holidays. I especially remember enjoying it on New Year’s Eve. We would usually make it in the slow cooker. There are countless ways to make delicious spiced cider, so feel free to experiment!