How to Make Hot Spiced Cider

A warm mug full of hot, spiced cider will warm up any winter holiday gathering. It is also great for Halloween parties where your costumed guests will love taking a break with this steaming drink. But regardless of whether your house is full of winter carolers or ghostly goblins, the warm, cinnamon scent of cider will leave everyone in your home feeling the holiday spirit.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gal. fresh apple cider
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• Cotton cheesecloth
• 1 tsp. whole cloves
• 1 tsp. whole allspice
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• Cooking string
• Large stockpot, crock pot or slow cooker
• Ladle
• Mugs suitable for hot beverages

Instructions

1. Pour the apple cider into the stock pot on the stove or into your crock pot or slow cooker.

2. Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar to the pot.

3. Cut a double thick, 6-inch square of cheesecloth and lay it on a flat surface.

4. Place the whole cloves, whole allspice and cinnamon sticks on the cloth square. Bring the corners of the cheesecloth together and tie securely with cooking string. Put this spice bag into the pot with the cider.

5. Bring the cider to a boil stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the cider to heat this way uncovered for approximately 15 minutes stirring occasionally. The spices will infuse themselves into the cider as the liquid heats.

6. Remove the spice bag from the pot and discard it.

7. Ladle the hot spiced cider into mugs suitable for hot beverages and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have cheesecloth, you can improvise with a tea ball or even a coffee filter.

• If you're making the cider for adult guests, you can try adding rum or brandy to taste for a little extra kick.

• Leave the cider uncovered during the entire process so that the aroma of the cider fills your home.