Hot Mulled Apple Cider

• 4 cups apple cider
• 8 strips of orange rind from 1 orange
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 t. whole allspice
• 1/4 cup brandy or bourbon (optional)

Remove the orange rind using a vegetable peeler and place in a stockpot with the cider, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then turn off heat and allow the spices to steep in the cider for 15 minutes. Add the brandy or bourbon, if using. Ladle into mugs and serve warm.

• Yields: 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes