While apple cider is delicious in its simplicity, spike it with cognac to warm up from within. Celebrate all of this season's festivities with this updated recipe of our classic.

Recipe calculated for 4-6 servings.

Ingredients:

2,5 cups (5 dl) apple juice (clear)
¼ vanilla bean
½ cinnamon stick
¼ cup (½ dl) finely granulated sugar
1 navel orange, peeled and sliced crosswise
A 2-inch piece of peeled fresh ginger, cut into 6 slices
1½ oz (4 cl) cognac

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Instructions:

Gently heat the apple juice together with the cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, ginger, orange and sugar. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes. Let it sit for about half an hour allowing the flavors to settle. Reheat and add cognac right before serving.

PRO TIP: Make "ice cubes" from cider — they won't water down your drink as they melt. Enjoy!