This is especially for all those enjoying the snow and who need something to keep them warm on those chilly nights…And it makes a nice alternative to mulled wine.

 

Spiced Cider

What you need:

• 2 litres apple cider
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon allspice (not mixed spice)
• 3 sticks cinnamon
• Unpeeled lemon — thinly sliced
• Sugar to taste

What to do:

1. Simmer all ingredients together.
2. Serve hot.
3. Remove all spices and refrigerate any leftovers.
4. Delicious reheated

 

Gift Ideas:

• Make a hamper, lined with real or artificial pine cuttings, and the ingredients for making this cider, along with two Christmas mugs.
• Tie a big bow around the cinnamon sticks and tie them to the handle, put a piece of ribbon through a copy of this recipe and tie it to the handle. An orange pomander ball and a couple  apples could also be added to the basket.
• If this gift is going to someone extra special, add napkins, nuts and a nutcracker, shortbread biscuits and so on.

Your friends will remember you all year, each time they use them!