National Hot Mulled Cider Day falls on Sept. 30, just as cooler weather and the first signs of fall begin settling in. It’s the perfect excuse to warm a pot of apple cider with cinnamon, cloves, citrus and other fragrant spices. Whether you’re celebrating with family, entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cozy seasonal drink makes the end of September feel — and smell — like autumn.

Serves: 6–8

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving
• 6 whole cloves
• 4 whole allspice berries
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar, optional
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Bourbon, rum or brandy, optional

Instructions

1. Add the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, star anise, orange slices, maple syrup and nutmeg to a large saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not let it boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–30 minutes.
4. Strain out the whole spices and orange slices.
5. Ladle the cider into mugs. If desired, add a splash of bourbon, rum or brandy to each serving.
6. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or fresh orange slice and serve warm.