For Mulled Cider

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp mulling spices
• 2 apples, thinly sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks + more to garnish
• 1 orange, thinly sliced

To Spike Cider (optional)

• 1½ cups spiced rum

1. Place mulling spices in a spice ball or in a piece of cheesecloth tied with butcher's twine
2. In a large pot over high heat, bring the cider, 2 cinnamon sticks, orange and apple slices, brown sugar and mulling spices to a boil. This may take awhile -- 10-15 minutes
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook about 20 minutes
4. Keep at a low simmer to keep warm on stovetop and provide mugs and a ladle -- allow guests to help themselves. To spike, add the spiced rum after the 20 minute simmer time