Mulled Apple Cider

In order to preserve a burner for other uses, I made this cider in my slow cooker. Just turned it on high for an hour or so and then left it on low to keep the cider warm. I'm not a fan of the floaties, so in the future I think I'll try to put the little stuff in a thing for steeping tea or some cheesecloth or something.

Ingredients

• 2 quarts apple cider (8 cups)
• 4 strips lemon zest
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 whole star anise (optional)
• 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, bring cider, lemon zest, and spices to a boil; cover, and remove from heat. Let steep at least 20 minutes (or up to 4 hours). Ladle carefully into mugs, leaving most of the solids behind. 

Recipe and photo from Martha Stewart