It's that time of year again; the days are crisper, the nights are chillier, and doorsteps are dotted with carved, candlelit pumpkins.

Halloween is creeping up with spindly, skeletal limbs, and we're using it as an excuse to do some final testing of our most cockle-warming recipes. Like our Cup of Stars, a cocktail inspired by The Haunting of Hill House – and Eleanor's over-active imagination as she watches a little girl insist on only drinking from her favourite mug.

This recipe is based on an 18th-century one for clarified milk punch, which is a lot easier (and more appetising) than it sounds. Its satisfyingly silky texture and soft spices make it perfect as the nights draw in.

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Happy sipping – and, of course, happy Halloween!

Ella, Allie & Lee

PS We're busy getting the cookbook polished and perfected for publication, so it looks great on your shelves – and so the recipes work perfectly for your plates. These things take time, and we truly appreciate your support and patience. It will be worth it, we promise!