In keeping with the themes of friendship, family, and community, I asked readers to share their favorite original fall recipes along with the special memories associated with them. It wasn’t easy sorting through the myriad of delectable desserts, but I narrowed it down to two, and they became the inspiration behind some of the sweet treats mentioned in the novel. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have!
~Rachael Bloome
From reader, Peggy:
A few years ago, my youngest daughter, Madison Potempa, wanted to have her friends from high school over for a "Fall Fest.” She came up with the menu and we shopped, but on that day she did all the cooking (I was laid up with a sudden onset of Ménière's disease, so I was unable to help). I smelled the cider all day and finally came out of my room to try it. Wow! I loved it. I have made something similar since, but nothing as good as hers.
RECIPE
Ingredients:
1 gallon organic apple cider, not juice
1 navel orange, washed
5 or 6 whole cloves
1 Tbs cinnamon, or 2 - 3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp nutmeg
3 Tbs honey
Instructions:
1. Pour as much of the cider as you can into a crockpot, leaving 2 inches of space from the top.
2. Add all ingredients except orange. Zest about 1 quarter of the orange, then roll the orange on the counter a little, then slice the rest into 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices and put into crockpot.
3. Crockpot should be on high for the first 30 minutes, then decrease to low temperature with the lid on until serving. You want to start early as it gets better and better the longer the flavor melds.
4. Serve warm with a ladle.
Enjoy!
Additional Notes:
As the spiced apple cider is consumed, you can add more of the organic cider into the crockpot and continue to simmer. At the end of the day, you can strain the mixture and put it back into the jar to store in the refrigerator. Shake before pouring. It can be enjoyed cold or warm. You can use 1/2 gallon for a smaller amount, but trust me, you will enjoy having leftovers!