- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 2 whole star anise
- 1 whole cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lemon, zested into strips and juiced
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 3 ounces bourbon (Bulleit is my favorite!)
- 2 apples, sliced (optional)
Combine the apple cider, star anise and cinnamon stick in a small sauce pot. Place over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 2-3 minutes, or until the cinnamon stick opens up. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Pour 1 tablespoon maple syrup into the bottom of each mug. Then pour 1 1/2 ounces of bourbon on top of the maple syrup. Top with half of the warm spiced apple cider, and stir to combine. Garnish with a lemon twist, apple slice, and cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.
