Autumn Essential: Bourbon Cider

As a Kentucky resident, I can tell you the local love for bourbon knows no bounds. Now that fall is upon us, I'm trading in gin and tonics for more seasonally appropriate drinks. One of my favorites to make is bourbon cider. It's incredibly simple and SO good - perfect for drinking next to a fire.

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Recipe:

• 1/2 gallon apple cider (I like Gravenstein, available from Whole Foods, but any delicious brand will do)
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp. nutmeg
• 15 cloves (or 1-2 tsp. ground cloves)
• 1/4 c. brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 orange

Pour apple cider into a saucepan, cover, and turn the heat on med-high. While it's heating, use a vegetable peeler to remove a few thicks strips of peel from the orange. Press the cloves into the orange (if you're using whole cloves). Place the orange, orange peel strips, and rest of the ingredients into the sauce pan with the cider. Keep covered and heat the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes on low heat. 

Use a mesh sieve to strain the liquid away from the other ingredients. Add your favorite bourbon to taste. I usually use 2-3 cups in this recipe. Use more bourbon if you're enjoying it with debauchees, less if celebrating with more virtuous company.  You can serve it with a cinnamon stick in each cup, if you're festive like that. 

xo,

Rachel