Cooking, decorating and hosting are all a little more fun with a delicious drink in hand, which is precisely why everyone needs something to sip on as the holiday season approaches. We’re here to help you find your drink of choice, whether that’s a simple apple cider or a perfectly crafted cocktail.

Today, we’re encouraging you to mix things up with an apple mojito. Traditionally, the mojito is a refreshing summer drink, but the rich flavors of cinnamon and apple make this a perfect option for times spent with friends and family around the fireplace.

It’s time to toast to time spent together!

Ingredients:

• 4 oz apple cider

• 3 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 3 oz Applejack liquor

• 4 oz white rum

• Diced apples

• Mint leaves

• Cinnamon sticks

Cinnamon simple syrup ingredients:

• ¼ cup sugar

• ¼ cup plus 1 tbl. of water

• Cinnamon stick broken in half

For simple syrup:

1. Place sugar, water and cinnamon stick in a small pot and bring to a boil

2. Turn heat off and allow mixture to cool to room temperature

3. Pour into mason jar and store in refrigerator until ready to use

Cocktail:

1. Combine cider, cinnamon simple syrup, Applejack and rum into cocktail shaker and mix well

2. In the glasses, muddle as much mint as you like

3. Fill glasses with ice

4. Add diced apples

5. Pour drink mixture over ice and stir

6. Garnish with extra mint leaves and cinnamon stick

7. Enjoy!