Bottom's Up: Spiked Cran-Apple Cider

You need to make this cider this weekend. Seriously, this hot cocktail is perfect for the cooler weather. I have been inspired by the cranberries I bought last week, and even more so after reading this post that says they stay good in the fridge for weeks!

I went on a hot apple cider binge after Danny and I sampled some at Whole Foods a few weeks ago. The purpose of the sample was actually to sell the mulling spices. You better bet we snatched them right up, along with some apple juice, and made cider after cider for a week straight.

Bright idea! Let's spike it.

Spiked Cran-Apple Cider

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple juice
• 1 cup cranberry juice (not cocktail)
• 2 shots bourbon whiskey
• 2 shots amaretto
• 2 packets mulling spices
• cranberries for garnish (optional)
• cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring juices to a boil in a small pot or teapot. Once boiling, remove from heat and immediately add whiskey, amaretto, and 2 bags of mulling spices. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Remove mulling spice bags and pour into mugs. Add cranberries and/or cinnamon sticks for garnish and enjoy! Serves 2.

Tip: You can always heat the juice in the microwave if you don't feel like dirtying a pot :)

blurry Claire gathering leaves for my photo