Total time: 58 min • Prep: 8 min • Cook: 50 min • Serves: 6 • Difficulty: Easy

There's no reason to stand on ceremony when it comes to cider—pears give this delicious drink new flavor, a little twist for a cold night. Remember the rule for choosing the best pears at the supermarket: If they don't smell like anything, they probably won't taste like anything. If you’re ready to eat and need a ripe pear immediately, gently press a finger at the top near the stem. If the fruit is ripe, it will give a little there. If pears are soft anywhere else, they are overripe and will be mushy. When buying apple cider, purchase the cloudy version in the refrigerated section at the grocery store. You want fresh apple cider that contains no added sugar or spices for the best flavor.