Mulled Cider
Sweet spices and crystallized ginger give this autumn beverage its zing. Float apple slices on top for an appealing presentation. If you want an alcoholic drink, add the rum or bourbon.

1 quart pure, unsweetened apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half
about 15 whole cloves
1 ounce (6 to 8 pieces) crystallized ginger
1/2 cup dark rum or bourbon (optional)
1 apple
1/2 lemon

In a small heavy saucepan, combine the cider, cinnamon, cloves and crystallized ginger. Place over medium-high heat until cider is steaming (do not let boil), then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and, if desired, stir in the rum or bourbon.

Peel and slice the apple, then moisten the slices with lemon juice to keep from discoloring. Strain the cider into mugs and float apple slices on top of each serving.

Serves 4.