One balmy evening in June, the Hill Team was feasting on lobsters in Rockland, Maine.

I found this recipe for warm cider in the library of the historic Captain Lindsey House Inn. I am glad that I saved it to adapt for a cold evening. We enjoy fresh cider, cold or warm, as is, but this simple, spicier version makes it special.

Ingredients
1/2 gallon of fresh apple cider, preferably from the orchard
2-3 tablespoons of freshly ground ginger
1 teaspoon, or more, of allspice, to taste
Cinnamon sticks to add to each mug

Method
Bring the top 3 ingredients to a gentle simmer in a large saucepan for about 10-20 minutes, or longer to scent your home and infuse the flavors.
Pour into mugs and add a cinnamon stick for flavor and stirring.

Tips
If you have any warm cider left, simply refrigerate to serve cold or warm again.
This cider pairs well with roast pork dishes.
I like to serve it in place of coffee or tea on cold mornings.
Norm suggests spiced cider with apple pie.
Experiment by adding or substituting your own favorite spices such as a star anise pod or a pinch of nutmeg.

Brenda C. Hill
International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association
Books By Hills Success Log Where & What in the World Blog

Finalist in the Writing and Publishing category of the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, “$uccess, Your Path to a Successful Book”