Hey all.
No exclamation point on this one, because it’s the saddest day of the year at my house today…pool closing day. We did pretty well, getting to swim until the last weekend of September, and I’m not complaining, I swear. But when that cover goes on, it always takes me a day or two to want to look out the back windows.
#Iknowthisisnotanactualproblem
The weather in SE Michigan definitely feels like fall this week, as temps are predicted to descend into the high 50s by this weekend. Summer is 100% my favorite time of year, so when I’m faced with the onset of Fall, I really have to work to find the high points of the season. I like all the fresh apples. Cider donuts, of course. Then, it’s time for aaaallllll my cardigans to come out of hibernation, and hoodies are necessary again. Candy corn is at the store! Bonfires are always better when it’s cooler. My sister and I are all-night Black Friday shoppers, which is so fun every year. And it means Peppermint Mochas and college basketball are right around the corner.
But maybe the best part of Fall is the shift to heartier cocktails. My absolute favorite fall combination is Hot Cider and Fireball Whiskey. I pour 6oz of cider per drinker into a saucepan and gently warm it up on the stove. Even though I’ve been tempted, I’ve never used the microwave for this, because I’m almost never just making one mug’s worth. And I have no idea how cider would microwave. So, take the time to use the pan; it’s worth it.
Once the cider is warmed through, add a shot of Fireball (or more, no judging!) to a mug, and then top it with cider. If you want to get fancy you could use cinnamon candy sticks to stir and serve, but I just mix with a spoon.
Not a cinnamon fan? Not a whiskey drinker? Use spiced rum instead. We drink it both ways around here, and are never disappointed.
I hope you enjoy one or both of these ways to make the most of your trip(s) to the cider mills and ease your way into the new season.
Jaclyn