Homemade Mulling Spice Mix Bags

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   You will also need: 32 empty tea bags (I use #3 T-sacs) cooking twine quarter-pound candy boxes (optional) instruction labels (optional ribbon (optional)

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   Place cinnamon sticks and nutmegs in a zippered freezer bag and close, pressing out all the air from the bag.

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   Place the bag on a cutting board and pound with a heavy pot or frying pan until sticks and nutmegs are broken into pieces.

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   Chop ginger into small pieces.

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   Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.

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   Set aside.

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   Cut kitchen twine into 32 six-inch pieces.

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   Place 2 slightly heaping tablespoons full of spice mix into each tea bag and tap gently on a hard surface to settle the spices in the bottom of the bag.

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   Fill all bags until spice mixture is completely used up.

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    Pinch each bag closed about 1 inch above the top of the spices so they have enough room to expand and move around while in the liquid.

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    Tie a double knot around the pinched point with the kitchen twine, and add a bow if you like.

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    If you are giving these as gifts, make sure to include the instructions below for your recipients.

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    To make mulled apple cider: Combine 1/2 gallon apple cider and 1 spice bag in a crockpot or a large pot on the stove.

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    Heat for 30-40 minutes or until hot.

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    Remove spice bag and discard.

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    Serve hot.

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    To make mulled wine: Combine 1/3 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a large pot on medium heat.

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    Stir until sugar is dissolved.

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    Add 750 ml of red wine and 1 spice bag.

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    Reduce heat to low and heat until wine is hot.

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    Remove spice bag and discard.

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    Serve hot.

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    Adapted from About.com

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.