Spiced Holiday Apple Cider

I have never been one to love apple cider... that is until I had fresh cider made from locally produced apples. To me, store bought cider has always had a bit of a processed taste to me. It's that taste that you can't really describe, but automatically tips you off that a product has likely been sitting in a box somehwere for a few weeks (or months) and is full of preservatives. When you make this delicious drink yourself, you know exactly what is in it, and how it was made. Plus, you get to enjoy the freshest flavor that can only be achieved with fresh herbs, ripe produce, and a heavenly aroma.

Ingredients

• 4 Fuji Apples
• 4 Red Delicious Apples
• 2 Oranges (peel for less tartness)
• 5 Cinnamon Sticks
• 1 Tablespoon Whole Cloves
• 1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1 inch grated Fresh Ginger Root
• 1 teaspoon Whole Allspice

Instructions

1. Clean the apples and oranges well as you will be heating them with the skin on. Then cut each in half or quarters and add to a stock pot.

2. Fill the pot with water after adding in the fruit until covered. Turn on high heat.

3. Add in your spices and brown sugar while you wait for the water to heat. Mix all ingredients together.

4. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer covered for 2 hours.

5. Mash fruit and allow to simmer for an additional hour uncovered.

6. Strain the mixture and enjoy your fresh cider hot or cold.