Best Hot Apple Cider Ever

Not thin and watery like other hot cider recipes, this rich, sustaining, thick, full-flavored cider is what I serve at holiday parties and cold-weather get-togethers. It always wins compliments and I've mailed it out many times - here it is for the rest of the world to enjoy!

In a big pot, bring to a boil:

1 gallon Martinelli's apple juice
* my own taste tests find this superior to other cider or juice bases, though it's expensive

1/2 bag or box brown sugar
1/3 cube butter
1 TBSP Cinnamon

1/4 tsp each...
  ~ Nutmeg
  ~ Allspice
  ~ Ginger (or, cut up 4-5 quarter-sized pieces of fresh ginger if you have it)

A pinch of curry powder
One apple cut in thin slices

Optional
  ~ small handful of raisins
  ~ 3 pieces whole Star Anise (makes it look very festive and beautiful)
  ~ shaved orange peel (more beauty)
  ~ whole cloves (more beauty)

Add some good cheer
3 cups brandy
1 1/2 cup rum
* Warn your guests! Even if you double the alcohol, it is very hard to taste that it is there.

After boiling, simmer for 20 minutes and serve. A cinnamon stick makes a great stirrer. This recipe can keep for a week if covered, but take the apples out or they will fall apart and cause the drink to have a grainy texture. Enjoy!