Thursday, December 17, 2009

Mulled "Cider"

7 servings/serving size: 1 cup

I served a version of this "cider" tonight to my writing group, and everyone wanted the recipe. Here's a version I used in Snack Attack.

I’ve always loved the taste of hot mulled cider, but the amount of sugar in apple cider is off the charts. So I devised this hot winter drink that tastes a lot like mulled cider–but without that high sugar content. It’s easy to double this recipe if you want to serve a large pot of this flavorful hot punch.

6 cups hot decaffeinated or caffeinated tea
1 cup orange juice
2 Tbsp lemon juice
3/4 cup Splenda, or to taste
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp orange extract
1 cinnamon stick
6 whole cloves

Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 30 minutes to allow the spices to permeate the liquid. Ladle into mugs. Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator 2 or 3 days. Rewarm in the microwave.

1 comment:

Cecilia Tan said...

I don't ever use Splenda, because I don't like the effects of the artificial sweeteners on my body and brain, but I'm betting it wouldn't take much stevia to have same sweetness. And perhaps using a fruity tea to begin with will also add sweetness without actual sugar.