The Worlds of Katherine Kurtz

Mulled Cranberry Cider

Cider served mulled, which means heated with sugar and spices.
The children enjoyed theirs fresh or "sweet," while the adults drank "hard" or fermented cider.
Makes 12 8-ounce servings.

Ingredients
8 cups (2 quarts) cranberry juice cocktail
3 cups frozen unsweetened red raspberries, thawed and slightly mashed
6 cinnamon sticks, each 3 inches long
1 1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
1 vanilla bean, split
4 cups (1 quart) apple cider, at room temperature

Step 1: In a large saucepan, bring the cranberry juice, raspberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and vanilla bean to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Strain through a tea strainer or a sieve lined with 100% cotton cheesecloth into a large heat-proof pitcher. Carefully pour in cider. Stir gently.