Your Go-To Spiced Apple Cider for the Holidays (Slow Cooker Version)
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.
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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. 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.
Notes
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. Leftover spiced apple cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.