Spiked Mulled Apple Cider

Thanksgiving is upon us – a favorite, no doubt, of many. It’s a time when we can fill our bellies to maximum capacity, without guilt, and our hearts with copious love as we surround ourselves with family & friends. It gives us the warm and fuzzies just thinking about it. And though you likely don’t need more warm and fuzzies, we thought we’d share a staple on our thanksgiving tables – hot mulled apple cider with whiskey. Guaranteed to warm & fuzz you from your heads to your toes. Recipe adapted from Ina Garten, see original recipe here.

• 1 gallon of Red Jacket Orchards Original, Honey Crisp, or Heirloom Cider
• 6 cinnamon sticks
• 2 oranges, peels & juice
• 8 whole cloves
• 5 star anise
• 2 inch of fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced
• ½-1 cup Templeton Rye Whiskey (optional)

Place all ingredients in a large saucepan to simmer over low heat for 10-20 minutes. Alternatively, you could use a crock-pot & simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, then change to the warm setting for service.

Pour into cozy mugs, garnish with orange peel & cinnamon stick, & enjoy.