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Cozy Slow Cooker Apple Cider Recipe Easy Homemade Autumn Drink

slow cooker apple cider - featured image

A warm, spiced slow cooker apple cider infused with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange slices, perfect for cozy autumn days and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 64 oz (1.9 liters) fresh, unfiltered apple cider
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 2 whole star anise pieces
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: a few whole allspice berries

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise briefly under cold water. Slice the orange into thin rounds, removing any seeds.
  2. Pour 64 ounces (1.9 liters) of fresh apple cider into the slow cooker. Add 1 cup (240 ml) of water to balance the sweetness.
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves (or spice bag if preferred), star anise pieces, and sliced orange rounds.
  4. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup (50 g) of brown sugar evenly over the mixture. Give everything a gentle stir to combine slightly.
  5. Set your slow cooker to low and let the cider simmer for 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours for a quicker version.
  6. After about 3 hours, taste the cider carefully and adjust sweetness if needed by adding a tablespoon of brown sugar at a time.
  7. Once the cider is richly infused and hot, turn off the slow cooker. Remove the spice sticks and orange slices with tongs or the spice bag.
  8. If desired, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a smooth finish.
  9. Ladle into heatproof mugs and serve warm. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a thin orange slice.

Notes

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for best flavor. Tie cloves in a cheesecloth pouch to avoid biting into them. Adjust sweetness gradually after tasting. Keep warm setting on slow cooker after cooking to maintain temperature without overcooking. Whole cinnamon sticks provide better flavor than ground cinnamon. If cider is too strong or sweet, dilute with a splash of warm water.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker apple cider, autumn drink, cozy drink, cinnamon cider, spiced apple cider, fall beverage, homemade apple cider