Here’s my version of a hot apple cider toddy. I call it a Kra-Ze Hottie Toddy because it uses vodka instead! Leave a pot of this on the stove as your guests arrive and they will be welcomed by the homey scent of cinnamon and apples. But once they taste it they won’t be reminded of grandma’s apple cider!
Serves 4-6:
Beverage:
1 å_ cups Kra-Ze Vodka & Lemon Lime Liqueur
å_ gallon fresh apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks
Garnish:
1/3 cup raw sugar
1å_ teaspoons ground cinnamon
å_ cup applesauce
1-2 Granny Smith apples, washed
Cinnamon sticks (1 for each serving)
Into a medium-sized pot, pour the Kra-Ze Vodka & Lemon Lime Liquor and the apple cider. Add the cinnamon sticks. With a medium heat, bring to a simmer, then lower the heat to just keep the cider warm.
Prep the Glasses:
Mix the sugar and ground cinnamon together in a bowl until the cinnamon is well incorporated. Transfer the mixture to a small plate. To moisten the rim of each mug, run a slice of apple around the rim. Turn each mug over and press the rim into the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
Garnish:
Slice a Granny Smith apple in å_ inch slices from top to bottom, avoiding the core. Poke a cinnamon stick through the center of each slice.
To Serve:
Place a tablespoon of applesauce in the bottom of each mug. (This step makes a big difference as it adds texture and depth to the drink — isn’t that sMARt?) Ladle the cider/vodka into each mug, then add the apple slice & cinnamon garnish; you can balance it on the rim or allow it to float on the top. Serve immediately.
Have a Hottie”_.be a Hottie. Let’s just get Kra-ze together!
And there you have it.