Apple Cider for New Years!

So I posted an apple cider recipe a month and a half ago, but had forgotten my (rather extensive, inebriating) testing last year. After finding my notes, I felt I should inform you all of the superior recipe and the important changes: First, toast the spices before adding them to the mulling ball. This mellows and richens their flavor, definitely an important step. Second, if you wait until the end to add the pomegranate or cranberry juice, it keeps it’s zing, whereas longer simmering will soften the pomegranate juice flavor. So, the new and improved (old) recipe:

 

A great holiday drink

Note: Updated post with improved technique here: http://cookingmadly.com/2012/12/28/apple-cider-for-new-years/

I don’t know about the rest of you, but one thing I love about winter is hot drinks. A warm mug of something steaming, crisp, cold air outside, and a fuzzy blanket or robe… yeah, that’s comfort to me. And how do you make it even better? Add booze! So, with that thought on mind, I give you my absolute favorite hot, alcoholic drink for the upcoming holidays.