Southern style mulled cider for Christmas

American-style apple cider, left; Apple juice,...
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Adding tea gives this hot beverage an added perk of flavor. Like with many 'spicy hot beverages, its what you add to yours that makes it a special treat for your family. With temperatures in South Carolina dipping into the 20's, it's time to enjoy this treat with a little southern influence.

Ingredients:
1 Gallon Apple cider (North Carolina makes great cider)
4 cinnamon sticks
2-3 large family flavored tea bags, fruit flavored teas taste the best, this is the southern influence to the recipe
whole cloves
1 cup of brown sugar (you can substitute with brown sugar substitute if you wish, or omit all together)
1 teaspoon Allspice
Large pot

In a large stock pot, pour in the entire gallon of cider and bring to a boil. Add in the spices and brown sugar. Bring the cider down to a slow simmer to allow the spices to steep. With a strainer, scoop out the cloves and cinnamon sticks. Add in the mint extract just prior to serving and stir.
Ladle into mugs and enjoy!

Note: Some like to add a splash  of rum to their mulled cider, while others use a good cup or two of red wine to heat with the cider, both are delicious.

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