There’s no need to add mulling spices to cider when amaro’s in the mix—the spices are all there, ready to go. This luscious combination of hot cider and Averna, created by New York bartender Ms. Franky Marshall, is our favorite way to spike cider these days. Sweetened with citrusy Grand Marnier and enriched with salted butter, it’s a hot drink you can pack in a travel mug and enjoy outdoors. Heat cider in a microwave for about 1 minute or bring just to a simmer on the stove before you begin. If you substitute a different orange liqueur, you may find that you don’t need the added lemon juice.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 2 cocktails

　　3 oz. Grand Marnier

　　1 oz. Amaro Averna

　　Small pat salted butter (about ½ teaspoon)

　　1 cup hot apple cider

　　1½ to 3 tsp. fresh lemon juice (to taste, depending on the sweetness of your cider)

　　Garnish: freshly ground pink peppercorns, plus 2 lemon wheels (optional)

　　

Step 1

Add 3 oz. Grand Marnier, 1 oz. Amaro Averna, and a small pat of salted butter to a 16-ounce travel mug or large heatproof measuring cup. Add 1 cup hot apple cider and stir until butter melts. 

　　

Step 2

Add 1½ tsp. fresh lemon juice and taste for sweetness, adding additional if needed. If serving in travel mug, garnish with ground pink peppercorns and seal. If serving in mugs, divide drink between two warmed mugs and garnish each with a pink peppercorn-dusted lemon wheel.