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Cozy Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider: Easy Homemade Perfection

slow cooker spiced apple cider - featured image

This easy slow cooker spiced apple cider is the ultimate fall comfort drink. Made with whole ingredients like apple cider, apple juice, and warm spices, it fills your house with an incredible aroma and delivers a cup of pure comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups (64 oz) Apple Cider
  • 4 cups (32 oz) Apple Juice
  • 1 large Orange, sliced
  • 45 Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 tablespoon Whole Cloves
  • 23 Star Anise (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. Combine the Liquids: Pour the apple cider and apple juice into your slow cooker. Give it a quick stir with your wooden spoon.
  2. Add the Sweetener and Vanilla: Pour in the maple syrup and the vanilla extract. Stir again to combine.
  3. Add the Fruit: Slice your orange into rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Gently place the orange slices into the slow cooker, pushing them down into the liquid.
  4. Add the Whole Spices: Toss in the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise (if using).
  5. Slow Cook on Low: Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let it cook for 3-4 hours.
  6. Check the Flavor: After 3 hours, give the cider a taste. If you want it spicier, let it cook for another 30-60 minutes. If you want it sweeter, stir in a little more maple syrup.
  7. Strain (Optional but Recommended): Once the cider is done, pour the entire contents through a fine-mesh strainer into a large pitcher or clean slow cooker insert.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot cider into your favorite mugs. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a thin slice of apple if desired.

Notes

Don’t boil the cider! Keep the slow cooker on LOW to avoid harsh flavors. For a deeper flavor, toast the spices in a dry skillet for 30-60 seconds before adding. Remove orange slices and spices after 4 hours to prevent bitterness. Can be kept on WARM setting for up to 4-5 hours after cooking.

Nutrition

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