This versatile homemade spice mix also makes a great gift. To package for gifts, place the plastic zip-lock bags inside small gift bags and garnish with decorative ribbon or raffia and a suitable 'garnish' such as a cinnamon stick.

Spice Mix

2 oranges, thinly sliced

7 to 8 teaspoons whole cloves - divided use

7 to 8 teaspoons whole allspice - divided use

7 to 8 (3-inch) sticks cinnamon - divided use

1. Place orange slices on a lightly greased wire rack; place rack on a baking sheet. Bake at 200°F (95°C) for 5 to 6 hours or until dry, removing slices as they dry. Using kitchen scissors, cut slices into eighths.
2. Place 1/4 cup orange pieces, 1 teaspoon cloves, 1 teaspoon allspice and 1 stick cinnamon in a small zip-top plastic bag. Seal and store in a cool, dry place. Repeat procedure with remaining ingredients.

Makes 7 to 8 gift bags.

DIRECTIONS FOR GIFT CARD:

• For a warming winter beverage, combine 1 bag Spice Mix, 2 quarts apple cider and 1 1/2 cups pineapple juice in a Dutch oven. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes. Pour mixture through a large wire-mesh strainer, discarding spices. Makes 9 (1-cup) servings.
• For a fragrant aroma, simmer 1 bag Spice Mix with 1 quart water.
• For a marinade for ham, combine 1 bag Spice Mix, 1 cup orange juice and 1 cup ginger ale in a large, heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag; add cook-before-eating ham. Seal bag and refrigerate 8 hours, turning occasionally. Bake ham according to package directions.

Adapted from a recipe from Southern Living.