Hot Apple Cider Toddy

I got this recipe off the Food Network. I made up a batch for a Christmas party. We stat outside around the fire pit and sipped on the cider--Every one loved it. What makes this really nice is your guests can make it with or without the bourbon, and adjust the other ingredients as well. I put the hot cider in a thermos carafe with a pump on it, and placed the cinnamon sticks, spiced butter, rum-flavored whipped cream, and seasoned graham crackers out for them to help themselves for refills.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 3  cups apple cider
• 8  tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1⁄4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1  teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1  teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1  teaspoon ground cloves
• 8  graham crackers
• 1  teaspoon  pumpkin spice
• 2  teaspoons  rum extract
• 2  cups Cool Whip
• 4  cinnamon sticks
• 4  ounces Bourbon

Directions

1. Heat cider in non-reactive saucepan.
2. Combine butter, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Whip until butter becomes creamy and the ingredients are incorporated.
3. Place graham crackers and pumpkin spice in plastic bag and crush with rolling pin.
4. Combine rum extract with Cool Whip.
5. In a footed coffee glass, or mug, place a single cinnamon stick and a slice of the spiced butter.
6. Pour 1 shot of whiskey (optional but recommended ;o)).
7. Ladle the hot cider into the glass or mug.
8. Garnish with a dollop of the rum-flavored topping and sprinkle on some graham cracker crumb mixture.
9. Serve warm.