I look forward to cold weather for only a few reasons and one is hot apple cider!

This is such an easy recipe that there is not much to say. However, I do have a little kitchen tool that I love that I must tell you about. It’s a spice ball.

First you fill up the ball with spices and then hang it from the side of the pot with the ball floating in the cider. It’s like a reusable tea bag. With this little gadget I don’t have to tie my spice bag or strain the cloves and spices out of the drink.

You don’t need this kitchen gadget to make this wonderful cider, but I love sharing and hearing about short cuts in the kitchen.

Enjoy this wonderful drink this Fall and Winter! We love it!

Traditional Hot Apple Cider

8 cups apple cider or apple juice
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
6 inches cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon whole cloves

In a saucepan combine cider and sugar. For spices use a spice ball or 6-inch square of 100% cotton cheesecloth. Place teaspoon on allspice and a teaspoon of cloves inside the ball or if you are using the cheesecloth, place in the center and tie it up with clean string. Add spices to cider mixture and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve in cider mugs.

Posted by Andrea