Hot Cranberry-Apple Punch

For Halloween, how about this warm cran-apple drink? That's what Lilly says from her cookbook.

(4) 3-inch cinnamon sticks
(4) star anise
2 tsp whole allspice
1 tsp whole cloves
1-1/2 qts apple juice
1-1/2 qts cranberry juice
1 dozen lady apples, for garnish

Rinse and squeeze dry a piece of cheesecloth. Wrap cinnamon, star anise, allspice and cloves in cheesecloth and rice into a packet with kitchen string.

Bring apple juice, cranberry juice and spices to a simmer in a large nonreactive saucepan over medium heat. Add apples. Transfer pot to a warming plate to keep warm. (Or reduce heat under pot to very low and serve punch from kitchen)

Serve hot.
16 Servings, from Essentially Lilly (Pulitzer) a Guide to Colorful Holidays