Cinnamon Cider (Holiday inspiration)

 

                Pull out the slow cooker to help you with the holidays. When serving hot cider at a holiday buffet, pour heated cider into slow cooker set on Low, and guests help themselves.

Makes 32 servings (about ½ cup each)

• 1 gallon apple cider
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons whole allspice
• 2 teaspoons whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks, 3 inches long
• 2 oranges, studded with cloves

1. In 4-quart Dutch oven, heat all ingredients except oranges to boiling ; reduce heat.
2. Cover ; simmer 20 minutes.
3. Strain punch through sieve or colander ; pour into small heatproof punch bowl.
4. Float oranges in bowl ; serve hot.

Hot Cinnamon Cider Floats : Make cider as directed (except omit oranges with cloves). Place a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream in large serving mugs ; add hot cider and garnish with additional cinnamon sticks, if desired.

BON APPÉTIT