Spiced Apple Cider

December confirms that winter has arrived! I even wore a sweater the other night as it was a brisk 70-something in Sunny South Florida. I wish it was cooler, but I will take what I can get. Something about winter air that makes me feel so festive, bubbly, and energetic. All I need is a cup of this and a (virtual) fire place to snuggle up to. Perfection.

2 quarts unfiltered apple cider
2 cups cranberry juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed 
1/3 cup brown sugar  
2 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
2 teaspoon whole cloves
1 orange, sliced thinly
Pinch grated nutmeg

1 cup dark rum or brandy (optional)

In a crockpot over high heat add the unfiltered apple cider, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and sugar- stirring until sugar is dissolved. In a cheesecloth or nut-milk bag add the cinnamon stick pieces, allspice berries, and cloves, then place the bagged spices in the crockpot, along with the sliced orange and the nutmeg. Cook over high for a minimum of 1 1/2 hours. Stir in the optional rum or brandy before serving- unless serving virgin cider. Drink warm and enjoy. Store leftovers in the fridge, then reheat before serving again.