Imagine a drink that can instantly transform a chilly evening into a cozy, aromatic paradise! This Hot Citrus Crock Pot Cider isn't just a beverage—it's a liquid hug that will make your taste buds dance and warm you from the inside out. Packed with vibrant citrus notes, sweet honey, and comforting cinnamon, this recipe is about to become your new cold-weather obsession. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something deliciously warming, this cider promises to be your ultimate winter companion!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 gallon of apple cider, 1 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 orange (sliced), and 1 lemon (sliced).
- In a large crock pot, pour in the entire gallon of apple cider. This will serve as the base of your hot citrus cider.
- Add 1 cup of fresh orange juice to the crock pot. This will enhance the citrus flavor and add a refreshing sweetness.
- Next, pour in 1/2 cup of lemon juice. The lemon juice will provide a zesty tang that balances the sweetness of the cider and orange juice.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of honey. This natural sweetener will add depth to the flavor profile. Adjust the amount to taste if you prefer a sweeter cider.
- Drop in the 2 cinnamon sticks. The cinnamon will infuse the cider with warm, spicy notes as it cooks.
- Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds. Add the slices into the crock pot, allowing their flavors to meld with the liquid.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 2 hours and 30 minutes. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to develop and combine beautifully.
- After 2 hours and 30 minutes, carefully remove the lid. Stir the cider gently to mix the flavors.
- To serve, ladle the hot citrus cider into mugs. You can garnish each mug with additional slices of orange or lemon, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
- Enjoy your warm, comforting Hot Citrus Crock Pot Cider with friends and family, perfect for cozy gatherings or chilly evenings!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality apple cider for the best flavor base
- Adjust honey to your sweetness preference—start with less, you can always add more
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a few whole cloves or a star anise
- Keep the crock pot on low heat to prevent burning and maintain a gentle infusion
- If serving for a party, keep the cider on warm setting so guests can help themselves
- Strain the cinnamon sticks and fruit slices before serving for a smoother drink
- Experiment with garnishes like cinnamon sticks, orange peels, or even a splash of bourbon for adult versions
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
