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8 cups apple cider
2 1-in. cinnamon sticks
5 whole allspice
1/2 cup brandy, optional
half a stick cold butter
In a large saucepan, heat apple cider, cinnamon sticks and allspice, covered over medium heat, until cider just starts to bubble around the edges. Lower heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavour. Stir in brandy, if using. Slice butter into squares. Serve cider with a pat of cold butter floating on top of each mug.