December 3rd ~ Hot Apple Punch

The following recipe is one I submitted to Country Woman Magazine years ago; it was featured in their Christmas Annual Book in 1998.

Photo by: Taste of Home

With its soothing cinnamon seasoning, this fresh and flavorful apple punch is a must for Christmas time.

• 8 Servings
• Prep: 5 min. Cook: 35 min.

Ingredients

• 2 cinnamon sticks (about 3 inches each), broken
• 10 whole cloves
• 6 whole allspice or 2 whole nutmeg
• 2 quarts apple juice
• Additional cinnamon sticks, optional

Directions

• Place the cinnamon sticks, cloves and allspice on a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up the corners and tie with string to form a bag. Place in a large saucepan with apple juice (or place loose spices in pan and strain before serving). Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove spice bag. Serve punch hot in mugs. Garnish with cinnamon sticks if desired.

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 cup) equals 119 calories, trace fat (trace saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7 mg sodium, 29 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, trace protein.

This punch is very delicious on a cold winter's night it creates a wonderful aroma in the house. Enjoy!