Step 1 - choose your virtualization platform e.g. Linux or Windows
Step 2 - build your host, update it, configure networking and other services.
Step 3 - install the Windows OS client that you want.
Step 4 - clone/snapshot the virgin install.
Step 5 - update the OS, install other helper apps (FoxIT or Adobe).
Step 6 - clone/snapshot the install.
Step 7 - Get an install code from AC and install your current version of AC.
Step 8 - clone/snapshot the install. (See the pattern?)
Step 9 - Attempt the upgrade.