Spiced and Spiked Hot Apple Cider

The evenings are darker and much cooler — fall is in full swing! And while it may be a season to slow down, things are still heating up around the fire pit. Fall is the perfect time to gather around with friends and family, whether you’re sharing stories around a larger fire pit or enjoying the glow of a tabletop fire pit. To make it that much better? A big mug filled with a warm, flavorful drink.

Combine the flavors of the season with this quick recipe for spiced and spiked hot apple cider. Use the heat of the fire to let it simmer, strain the mixture, and say cheers to the coziest fall evening.

Equipment

Ingredients

32 ounces apple cider

1 orange

3 whole cinnamon sticks

15 whole cloves

1 whole star anise

*Bourbon, scotch, or dark rum, optional

Step 1: Heat Up Your Mesa

Start a fire in your Mesa tabletop firepit. Cook down small pieces of wood to create a base of hot coals.

Step 2: Prep the Apple Cider Mixture

In a campfire pot, add the apple cider, juice of half of an orange, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Press the cloves into the rind of three orange slices and add the slices to the pot. Add additional cinnamon sticks, star anise, or cloves for a more robust cider.

Step 3: Warm the Apple Cider

Heat up the apple cider mixture with a low flame in Mesa, stirring occasionally, for five to ten minutes.

Step 4: Strain and Serve

Using a small strainer, strain the mixture into mugs. If desired, Add a bourbon or dark rum, and garnish with a cinnamon stick.