Spiced cider provides an aromatic drink for cold days.
The aroma of warm apple cider permeates the home, bringing to mind the Christmas holiday season. Most store-bought ciders aren't spiced heavily enough to produce a mouth-watering aroma, but the process for brewing cider from scratch is too involved for most home cooks. Turning a store-bought cider, or even apple juice in a pinch, into an aromatic and tasty holiday treat requires minimal time if you use the right ingredients.
Instructions
1. Cut an 8-inch square of cheesecloth. Lay the cheesecloth flat on the counter.
2. Place the cinnamon sticks, mace, cloves and allspice in a mound in the center of the cheesecloth. Gather the ends of the cheesecloth together and tie it closed with a string, creating a small packet filled with the spices.
3. Pour the apple cider or juice into a large pot. Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves, if your cider requires additional sweetness.
4. Submerge the spice packet in the cider. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Simmer the cider for 10 minutes.
5. Remove the spice packet from the cider with a slotted spoon. Serve the cider immediately, or keep it warm over low heat until you are ready to serve.
Tags: apple cider, spice packet