A warming cup of mulled cider is just what you need on a chilly winters night while watching fireworks or coming home after a bracing walk. We’ve used pear cider for a delicious twist  but you can used apple cider instead. And, for an alcohol-free version simply warm apple juice with the spices and fruit.

SERVES 8 – PREP 5 MINS – COOK 10 MINS

1 ltr pear cider

500ml clear apple juice

100ml brandy (optional)

Thinly pared rind of 1 lemon

5 slices fresh ginger

2 sachets mulling spices

2 cinnamon sticks plus extra, to serve (optional)

1 pear or apple, thinly sliced

1 Pour the cider, apple juice and brandy, if using, into a large saucepan. Add the lemon rind, ginger, mulling spice sachets and cinnamon sticks and heat on a medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 mins until hot but not boiling.

2 Remove from the heat, and leave to stand for 2-3 mins. Remove the spice sachets, and stir in the pear or apple slices. Ladle into glasses and serve warm adding a cinnamon stick, if liked.