Ingredients
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)1 piece fresh gingerroot (about 1 inch), thinly sliced1 teaspoon whole allspice1 teaspoon whole cloves1/2 teaspoon cardamom pods, crushed2 quarts apple cider or juiceRum, optional
Preparation
Place first five ingredients on a double thickness of cheesecloth. Gather corners of cloth to enclose spice mixture; tie securely with string.
Place cider and spice bag in a 3-qt. slow cooker. Cook, covered, to allow flavors to blend, 2-3 hours. Discard spice bag. If desired, stir in rum.
