Hot Buttered Punch by Katie Thompson

Not many drinks these days include butter, but this treat carries a long tradition. It's unique and yummy.

Yields about 10 cups

Cooking time: 3–4 hours

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Attention: Moderate

Pot size: 3–5 quarts

¾ cup brown sugar

4 cups water

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

½ teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon allspice

¾ teaspoon ground cloves

2 1-pound cans jellied cranberry sauce

1 quart pineapple juice

16 sticks cinnamon bark

16 small dabs butter

1. Combine the sugar, water, salt, spices, cranberry sauce, and pineapple juice in the slow cooker.

2. Cover and heat on a low setting for 3 to 4 hours. Stir twice to blend in the cranberry sauce as it melts.

3. Provide the cinnamon sticks and butter dabs to garnish individual servings. Keep the butter chilled, ready for guests to drop in their drink.