Get ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy autumn haven with this irresistible Slow Cooker Apple Cider recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and fill your home with the most intoxicating aroma! Whether you're craving a family-friendly warm beverage or looking to spice up your evening with a boozy twist, this versatile recipe delivers comfort in every single sip. Imagine rich, spiced apple cider slowly simmering with fragrant oranges, warming cinnamon, and aromatic spices - it's like a hug in a mug that will transport you straight to your favorite fall memories!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries
- Optional: 1/2 cup bourbon
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure your slow cooker is clean and ready to use.
- Pour the 6 cups of apple cider into the slow cooker base, creating an even liquid foundation.
- Slice the orange into thin rounds, removing any seeds, and gently place the slices into the cider.
- Add the whole cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries directly into the liquid, distributing them evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting, allowing the mixture to gently warm and infuse for approximately 4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, taste the cider and adjust spices if needed for desired flavor intensity.
- For an adult version, optionally stir in 1/2 cup of bourbon during the final 15 minutes of cooking for additional warmth and complexity.
- Once cooking is complete, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove whole spices and orange slices before serving.
- Serve hot in mugs, garnishing with a fresh cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired.
- For non-alcoholic version, serve as prepared. For bourbon version, add spirits just before serving.
Tips
- • Use fresh, high-quality apple cider for the most robust flavor profile • Don't rush the infusion process - low and slow is the secret to developing deep, complex flavors • For a more intense spice experience, gently crush whole spices before adding to release more aromatics • If you prefer a sweeter cider, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup • Use a fine-mesh strainer to ensure a smooth, clean pour when serving • For the adult version, choose a good quality bourbon that complements the apple and spice notes • Garnish with fresh orange slices or cinnamon sticks for an Instagram-worthy presentation • Can be kept warm in the slow cooker for several hours, making it perfect for gatherings
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
