This comforting hot cider is easy to make and economical to serve at winter parties. The cider base can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days ahead. When ready to heat, add the rum.

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 4 cinnamon sticks (each 3 inches long)
• 1 1/2 tsp whole allspice
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 navel orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 cup rum, or to taste (optional)
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

1. In 6-quart saucepot, heat cider with cinnamon sticks, allspice, cloves, orange slices, and lemon slices to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer about 45 minutes. (Cider base)
2. Add rum; heat through. Do not boil.
3. Pour cider through sieve into heat-safe punch bowl. Discard spices and fruit slices. Serve hot cider in warm cups accompanied by cinnamon-stick stirrers if desired.

(Grammie Jan)