Summer is over and fall is underway. With the anticipation of the holidays yet come, the leaves dazzling us with their warm colors, and the mild-but-sweaters-required weather outside, what do we want to do? We want to enjoy the flavors of this fall season. A mug of spiced mulled cider gives you more than just a toasty drink to keep your bones warm — it also infuses your house with the delicious smells of autumn that help you to forget all about the sunny days of summer.
Things You’ll Need
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2 quarts apple cider
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1 orange
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3 cinnamon sticks
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3 whole allspice berries
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5 whole cloves
Tip
Want to make it boozy? (Of course you do!) Add 1/2 cup (1/4 cup per quart) of spiced rum after you've simmered it to perfection. Just bring it up to temp prior to serving. Simmering the rum the entire time will reduce it too much, alter the flavor and cook off some of the alcohol. Just cook the rum enough to warm it, right at the end.
Step 1: Slice the Orange
Thinly slice the orange.
Step 2: Simmer
Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves and cider to a pot over medium-low heat. Simmer (do not boil) for 45 minutes and up to 3 hours. The longer you simmer, the more intense the flavors will be. Taste after 45 minutes to decide if you want to continue to simmer and intensify the flavors. Add rum, if using, right before serving.
Tip
Want a sweeter cider? Add 1/4 cup real maple syrup.
