I’m getting serious about holiday cheer.
This is the first step — a huge mug full of cozy comfort.
Dessert and warmth in a cup. That’s the idea.
When I mentioned the smoky bacon almond brittle and the bourbon bacon cookbook I discovered, I also came across something else: hot cider nog.
Apple cider and eggnog — two favorites — combined, served warm, with a touch of bourbon and garnished with cinnamon and apples. It sounded irresistible.
I felt like I’d missed out on years of this cozy drink and wanted to make up for lost time.
The name “hot cider nog” might not be glamorous, but it describes the drink perfectly. You can serve it warm in mugs or in a large punch bowl for gatherings. It’s the kind of thing that makes you picture festive glasses and easy holiday entertaining.
The flavor is exceptional: familiar eggnog richness with a sweeter, autumnal apple cider note, extra cinnamon and warm apple depth. It’s comforting and festive.
You can omit the bourbon if you prefer a nonalcoholic version, but a splash of bourbon adds a lovely warmth and rounds out the flavors.
Hot Cider Nog
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Ingredients
- 2 cups half and half
- 1/2 cup milk (2% or whole)
- 1 1/4 cups apple cider
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)
- whipped cream for topping
- cinnamon sticks for garnish
- apple slices for garnish
Instructions
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Combine the half and half, milk, apple cider, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in a large saucepan. Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling, for 15–20 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a wooden spoon. Remove from heat and continue whisking for a minute or two more.
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Stir in the bourbon if using, either into the whole pot or add a few ounces to individual mugs. Serve in mugs topped with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, apple slices and a grating of fresh nutmeg.
Notes
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I can’t think of a better way to clink glasses with friends.