When we lived in the suburbs, we used to host a big S’more Fest every fall for our friends and their children. We had lots of food, drinks and a firepit for making the s’mores. In addition to serving chilled apple cider, we would always make a large pot of hot spiced cider. For guests over 21 years old, we offered a shot of rum to give it some extra warmth. Usually the hot cider didn’t go quickly as it is more of an adult flavor. This year in Brooklyn, we decided to start the tradition again, and the hot cider went very quickly as the party was mostly adults.

Even though this is a quick recipe, start it early in the day to really let the flavors develop. We like to make it on the stovetop in a large pot and then transfer it to a crockpot we can plug in outside to keep it warm. Our hot spiced cider is great for keeping you warm on a cool fall day. This recipe is easy to double to triple for large crowds.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 1 gallon

Ingredients:

1 gallon apple cider
4 whole cinnamon sticks, plus extra for garnish
1 TBL ground cinnamon
2 tsp whole cloves
2 large slices of orange rind (just the oange outside layer, none of the white pith)
Juice of 1 orange
1 large slice of lemon rind (just the yellow outside layer, none of the white pith)
Rum for adding an extra kick (optional)

Directions:

1. Add all the ingredients to a large pot and heat over medium. You want it just below a simmer. Give it a good stir and cover.

2. After 30 minutes, remove the lid, give it another stir and taste to see if you want to add any more cinnamon or cloves.

3. Transfer to a crockpot and set the heat to low. Keep it covered until ready to serve. Ladle into mugs and serve with a cinnamon stick. Keep a bottle of rum handy to add a splash for those of age who want it.