Hot Buttered Cider

Hot Buttered Cider

It has been cold in the US except for a few places.  To warm up in the winter, hot beverages are key.  I usually have a kettle of hot water on for those who want tea and the Keurig is ready to go.   I deviated from the norm the other day.  I made some Hot Buttered Cider for the family.

Hot Buttered Cider is a apple juice or apple cider that has been simmered with spices, lemon peel, and a little brown sugar. As the cider is simmering with the spices and lemon a wonderful aroma permeates the house.   Once the cider has simmered for about 20 minutes you serve it in mugs topped with a pat of butter.  A delicious winter beverage to help you keep warm.

This recipe makes about one quart so I kept it warm in a Crock pot.  You can also keep it warm in a carafe.

Hot Buttered Cider
From BHG Magazine

Ingredients:

8 cups of apple cider or apple juice
2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar
4 stick cinnamon
1 teaspoon of whole allspice
1 teaspoon of whole cloves
Peel from 1 lemon, cut into strips
2 tablespoons of butter
Cinnamon sticks (optional)

Directions:

Combine cider and brown sugar in a large saucepan. For a spice bag, tie cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and lemon peel in a 6-inch square of 100 percent cotton cheesecloth. Add spice bag to cider mixture. Bring to boiling over medium-high heat; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove and discard spice bag.
Top each serving with 1/2 teaspoon butter and serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer, if desired.

Makes 10 to 12 servings