Hi guys! I just wanted to make a quick post to share with you my favorite way to make my house smell amazing when visitors come over. Lets face it, regardless of what Food Network wants us to believe, everyone is not cooking 5 gourmet snacks every time people come over around the holidays that make the house smell perfect.

Here is my quick tip! in a small sauce pot combine:

-1.5 cups of Apple cider
-8-10 Cloves
-2 Large Cinnamon sticks
-1 Orange cut into slices OR 4-6 dried orange slices.
-(Optional) 1/4 cup of Red wine (I like Merlot or Pinot Noir, but any red will work.)

I discovered the red wine adds an interesting touch when I used the left over spice mix from Glühwein that I had made one night.

About 30 min before your guests arrive bring the mixture to a simmer on medium-low heat and allow to simmer for the evening. I recommend putting it on a back burner since it will stay on, especially if you have kids! About every hour add a cup of water so the level doesn’t get too low and burn your spices.

Tip: If you are finding that cinnamon sticks are too expensive, look for an Amish market near where you live. I get large bundles of cinnamon sticks for under $10.