I love this unique twist on cider punch because it was inspired by the spices in chai. It’s so easy to make, and everyone seems wonderfully surprised by the summery apricot and peach twist.
—AYSHA SCHURMAN AMMON, ID
PREP: 15 MIN. • COOK: 3 HOURS • MAKES: 10 SERVINGS (3/4 CUP EACH)
3 1/2 cups apple cider or juice
3 cups apricot nectar
1 cup peach nectar or additional apricot nectar
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh gingerroot
1 teaspoon grated orange peel
8 whole cloves
Lemon or orange slices, optional
1. In a 3- or 4-qt. slow cooker, combine the first seven ingredients. Place cinnamon sticks, ginger, orange peel and cloves on a double thickness of cheesecloth. Gather corners of cloth to enclose seasonings; tie securely with string. Place bag in slow cooker.
2. Cook, covered, on low 3-4 hours or until heated through. Remove and discard spice bag. Serve warm, with lemon slices, if desired.