Are you tired of the same old boring hot drinks during the chilly holiday season? What if I told you that you could easily make a deliciously spiced apple cider recipe right in your slow cooker with minimal effort? This apple cider recipe is sure to become your new favorite fall and winter beverage!
Ingredients List
- 1 gallon fresh apple cider
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (optional)
For a tangier twist, try substituting the lemon with a lime. If you prefer a less spiced version, feel free to reduce the amount of cloves and nutmeg. The brown sugar is optional but adds a lovely hint of caramel sweetness to the apple cider recipe.
Timing
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours on Low, 1-2 hours on High
Total Time: 3-4 hours
This easy hot apple cider recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, which is 50% less time than the average stovetop recipe. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Pour the apple cider into your slow cooker. Float the orange and lemon slices on top. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, nutmeg, and brown sugar (if using). Gently stir to combine.
Step 2: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 3-4 hours or on High for 1-2 hours. The longer the apple cider recipe cooks, the more intense the spice flavors will become.
Tip: If cooking on High, check the cider after 1 hour and adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Before serving, remove and discard the orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Ladle the hot spiced apple cider into mugs and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors!
Nutritional Information
One serving of this spiced apple cider (without the brown sugar) contains approximately:
- 120 calories
- 0g fat
- 30g carbohydrates
- 28g sugars
- 0g protein
While apple cider does contain natural sugars, it also offers various antioxidants and vitamins. Cinnamon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lower-sugar version, use unsweetened apple juice instead of cider and omit the brown sugar. You can also add a splash of sugar-free caramel syrup for a hint of sweetness without the extra calories.
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, ensure your apple cider is free from any animal-derived ingredients, such as honey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spiced apple cider in heat-proof mugs or glasses. For a festive touch, garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick, a fresh apple slice, or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
This warm, comforting beverage pairs perfectly with ginger cookies, pumpkin bread, or a slice of apple pie. It’s also a great drink to serve at holiday gatherings or while sitting around a cozy fireplace.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Avoid cooking the cider for too long, as the flavors may become overly intense or bitter. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
- Using ground spices: While you can use ground spices in a pinch, whole spices will provide a cleaner, more well-rounded flavor to your cider.
- Forgetting to strain: Always remove the whole spices and fruit slices before serving to prevent any unwanted choking hazards.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover spiced apple cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
If you’d like to prepare the ingredients ahead of time, you can place the sliced fruits and whole spices in an airtight container or resealable bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding them to the slow cooker with the apple cider.
Conclusion
This slow cooker spiced apple cider recipe is a simple, delicious way to enjoy a classic fall and winter beverage. With its warm, comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your holiday drink rotation.
Give this apple cider recipe a try and let us know how you liked it! Share your thoughts, modifications, or serving suggestions in the comments below. And don’t forget to explore our other cozy beverage recipes to keep you warm and satisfied all season long!
