Cozy Up with Hot-Mulled Cider for September

It's September already!

As the evenings grow cooler, you may want a nice warm cider to cozy up with. The below recipe is from my mother's recipe box and I am sharing it with you! I'm sure your home will smell like autumn when you make this! 

Hot Mulled Cider for a crowd (adult version) 

2 sticks cinnamon

12 whole cloves

2 t allspice

4 qt apple cider

1 c. light brown sugar

2 c. dark rum or brandy

1 lemon, sliced thinly

In heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring cinnamon, cloves, allspice, cider and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Strain into a heatproof punch bowl. If desired, heat the rum, pour on top, add lemon slices and set the punch on flame. ( USE CAUTION!!!) If you aren't going to light the rum or omit the rum, you can strain into a container to refrigerate and drink later. 

Serve hot or cold - 24 servings - garnish mugs/cups with lemon slices and cinnamon sticks

For a non adult version - leave out the alcohol and omit the flame.