Spiked Apple Cider that gets its kick from Kentucky bourbon, a fall drink served warm or cold. No matter the temperatures outside its a delightful treat. Early this year we created an outdoor space that included a fire pit for atmosphere, side tables to hold our drinks and appetizers and seasonal plant for beauty. There is no better place to enjoy such a tasty cocktail than with my family under the starts.

INGREDIENTS

Cocktail

4 - 1/2 cups apple cider

1 tablespoon orange juice, no pulp

3 whole cloves

1 whole cinnamon stick

1 star anise

1 cup Kentucky bourbon, my preference is Old Forester 86 proof

Rim Sugar

Zest of one orange

1/2 cup sugar

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium saucepan, add apple cider, orange juice, cloves, cinnamon stick, star anise heat to medium, reduce heat to a simmer for 30 minutes allowing spices to release flavor. Remove from stove top, add in bourbon, cool and pour into pitcher.

2. Add orange zest to sugar, stir to combine. Add sugar to a saucer, rim edge of glasses with orange slice, dip glass rim in to the sugar mixture to garnish. Pour cider into glass with ice, garnish with orange slice and cinnamon stick.

   This cocktail can also be served warm, equally delicious.

   Yields: 1 pitcher

   Enjoy this cozy cocktail with my favorite fall treat, Pumpkin Bread.