The air is cool and crisp, the trees are full of color, and scarves and tall boots abound. Autumn is in full swing here in the Lehigh Valley, and we want to share with you one of our favorite fall beverages – Hot Spiced Cider. A confession — this beverage does not contain beer; HOWEVER, it does contain the perfect set of ingredients for warming you from the inside out as the temperatures continue to drop. This recipe is easily doubled or tripled as needed. We love making a big batch for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for the family and letting it stay warm in a big crock pot throughout the day. Find the recipe below!

 

 

Two Pints’ Hot Spiced Cider

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider (we love local cider from Bechdolt’s)
• 1-2 oranges, thinly sliced
• 1-2 whole apples
• whole cloves
• mulling spices: you can find these pre-made in tea bags (like ours from Fly Creek Cider Mill), or you can make your own using any combination of cinnamon sticks, allspice, nutmeg, and/or cardamom
• spiced rum (we swear by Kraken Black Spiced Rum)
• cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional, but makes you feel extra fancy so you should go ahead and get some.)

What to do

1. Pour the cider into a large stock pot and place on medium heat.
2. While the cider begins to warm, stud the apple(s) with the whole cloves by gently pressing them into the apple(s) on all sides.
3. Add the studded apple(s) and orange slices to the cider and allow to continue warming until hot but not bubbling, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine the mulling spices of your choice into a cheesecloth pouch if you have one, or add directly to the pot of warm cider (if you add spices directly, straining will be necessary prior to drinking). If you are using pre-made mulling spices, add satchel to the pot.
5. Allow the spices to steep in the cider for 5-10 minutes depending on your preference.
6. Take a deep inhale to appreciate how nice your kitchen now smells.
7. Pour cider into your most hipster drinking container (like our glass mason jars with handles), pour in a healthy glug of spiced rum, stir, and garnish with a fancy cinnamon stick.
8. Enjoy!

Makes about 8 servings, depending on how much self-control you have.

Cheers!
Bethany