Spice Coffee

Anise adds a distinctive note to this pairing of coffee and chocolate.

Even those who usually don't drink coffee will find this special blend with a hint of chocolate appealing. Joanne Holt of Bowling Green, Ohio, keeps a big batch simmering at a brunch or open house.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 120 minutes

You Will Need
8 cups brewed coffee
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup chocolate syrup
1/2 teaspoon anise extract
4 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
1-1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
Additional cinnamon sticks, optional


What to Do
1. In a 3-qt. slow cooker, combine the coffee, sugar, chocolate syrup, and anise extract.

2. Place cinnamon sticks and cloves in a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up corners of cloth and tie with string to form a bag. Add to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

3. Discard spice bag. Ladle coffee into mugs; garnish each with a cinnamon stick if desired.

Serves 8