Mulled cider, like mulled wine, has become a winter tradition in many peoples lives.

This warm, comforting drink is easy to prepare and is best shared with friends either indoors or outdoors round an open fire.

Ingredients:

• 4 pints of still, dry farmhouse cider
• 3 apples – washed, cored and sliced
• 2 oranges, washed and sliced
• 8 whole cloves
• Juice and zest of 1 unwaxed lemon
• 2 tsp ground mixed spice
• 6 tbsp light soft brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon quills snapped in half

Method:

• Put all the ingredients into a pan, cover and heat gently for a minimum of 1 hour
• Do not boil
• Gather friends, and serve
• For an extra kick why not add a splash of calvados