There's nothing that says Happy Holidays to me more than the smell of warm spices and a steaming warm mug cupped in my hands.

I found this delicious recipe when I was looking for something to make on the stove quickly for my kids to enjoy while we work on our homeschool together. This season's chilly and sometimes overcast weather calls for a warm drink to sip on at the table. You could make this for a dinner party or gathering, or even chill and store in the fridge to serve over ice. For us, the delicious fragrance that wafted into our dining room (where we sit for school) was enough to lift all our spirits and make us feel cozy!

I love natural and wholesome ingredients, and this recipe uses maple syrup as a sweeter. Whole allspice berries are also an ingredient, but if you can't find them, the cider would still taste wonderful if you need to omit them. I was able to find them at my local grocery store.

Homemade Hot Apple Cider Recipe

Source: Allrecipes

*(I doubled this recipe to serve 7 adults and 9 kids)

Directions:

Step 1. Pour the apple cider and maple syrup into a large saucepan

Step 2. Place cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange peels and lemon peels in a clean, washed cheese cloth. Wrap and tie so it forms a "tea bag" for simmering. Drop the bundle into the cider mixture.

Step 3. Gently simmer over a moderate heat for 5-10 minutes. Discard the spice bundle. Serve into cups or mugs and add a cinnamon stick as a garnish if desired.

That's it!

If you're looking for a tasty and tested muffin recipe to go along with your cider, I was recently asked to suggest a good breakfast option for young kids to eat on-the-go. I recommend these delicious, healthy apple muffins to enjoy by themselves or with your cider. You will need to bake them in advance, but they make a wonderful breakfast option. I added blueberries to mine.

This cider was a big hit in my house! I think you will enjoy the scent of cinnamon and orange peel equally as much as you will enjoy sipping it and sharing it with your loved ones. I hope it will warm your spirits this season!