Spiced Cider

Kate Jepsen

This is our favorite cool weather drink.  It makes your house smell amazing and tastes even better!  We’ve served this at many gatherings, but the most memorable was Prescott’s first birthday party!  Now when I smell it, I think of his little bald head and gap-tooth smile as he dug into his cake and frosting!

Spice Bag

• 8 black peppercorns
• 6 whole allspice
• 6 whole cloves
• 2 (3 inch) cinnamon sticks
• 3 (3 x 1 inch) orange rind strips
• 5 inch square of cheese cloth
• Kitchen twine

• ½ gallon apple juice
• ½ gallon apple cider
• 2 quarts cranberry juice cocktail

1. Wrap up the spice bag by placing peppercorns, whole allspice, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange rind strips on square of cheese cloth.  
2. Gather the edges and tie securely with the kitchen twine.
3. Combine the apple juice, apple cider, cranberry juice cocktail, and spice bag in a large Dutch oven.
4. Bring to a boil.  
5. Partially cover, reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes.
6. Discard spice bag before serving.
7. Serve hot or cold.