Once a year I enjoy a hot cup of mulled apple cider. For my family, Christmas is not over on the 25th. In Spain, we actually celebrate up until January 6, known as the day of the kings. As a child, it was on this day that we would open our gifts, have a large family dinner and special Spanish treats like roscón de reyes and turrón.
Then, when I spent Christmas here in Canada, it was just as wonderful but very different. It was just my parents and I, decorating the tree, having a few speciality items and meals together. Very low key.
There are certain smells that still remind me of this time and they are often found in holiday foods and drinks which is why I love this time of year so much: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla and citrus. Baking. Pine. Peppermint.
This is where the apple cider enters into the picture. I wanted to make my own and combine the flavours connected to my memories of the holidays. Plus, there is something extra special about having your whole house smell like Christmas. It almost makes the mulled apple cider tastier.
This is a simple, crock-pot recipe that makes approximately 16 cup servings so it is perfect for a large group. The mulled apple cider can stay in the pot, warm for the duration of the evening, if it lasts that long.
For other great recipes and more follow me on twitter @divinediuum, facebook or my blog, www.divinediuum.wordpress.com. —Divine Diuum
See what other Food52ers are saying.