Sleigh Driver

This scrumptious nonalcoholic punch adds pear, cranberries and vanilla to the traditional hot cider.

Serves 10

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 3 pears, chopped into bite-size pieces, divided
• 2 quarts apple cider
• 1 lemon, halved and sliced
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  

Directions:

1. Combine water, sugar, ginger and 1 pear in a large saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain out the solids and return the mixture to the pan.
4. Add the remaining pears, cider, lemon and allspice and heat over medium-high heat, stirring often, for 15 minutes.
5. Add cranberries and vanilla and reduce the heat to medium-low (the liquid should be simmering, not boiling).
6. Let simmer for 10 minutes more.
7. Serve in heat-safe mugs.