Heat up a batch of spiced apple cider to serve this holiday season. Whether you spike it with bourbon, add a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it as-is, this is a drink that will warm you from the inside out.
Place apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cardamom, and nutmeg in a medium size saucepan set over medium heat. Split vanilla bean lengthwise with the tip of a sharp knife and scrape out the seeds using the back of the knife. Add bean pod and seeds to the pan. Bring cider to a simmer and reduce heat to low, allowing the cider to cook for about 15 minutes.
Strain cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove cinnamon sticks and vanilla bean solids.
Divide cider among four heat-proof mugs and stir 1 ounce of bourbon into each glass (if using). Top with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon or apple pie spice. Serve warm.
Notes
This recipe can easily be increased to serve larger groups.If you do not have a vanilla bean, substitute with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste, adding the extract or paste at the end of cooking, just before serving.You can also warm the cider in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours. Leave in the slow cooker set to the warm setting to keep the cider warm for a party.You can strain the full batch of cider or use a small mesh strainer over the mugs to strain each cup as you serve it.