Ginger-Vanilla Milk Punch

Ingredients

• 1 qt. 2% reduced-fat milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 (1/4-inch-thick) fresh ginger slices
• 2 lemon rind strips
• 1 orange rind strip
• 1 vanilla bean, split
• Dark rum (optional)

Preparation

1. Bring milk, cream, sugar, ginger, lemon rind strips, orange rind strip, and split vanilla bean to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 20 minutes. Strain mixture into a pitcher. If desired, stir in 2 Tbsp. dark rum per 1 cup punch just before serving.