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Spiked Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 14 reviews
  • Author: Sienna
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Warm up your gatherings with this cozy Crockpot Apple Cider recipe that infuses apple cider with cinnamon, star anise, apples, and orange slices. Perfect to serve as a comforting beverage on its own or spiked with vodka or Fireball whiskey for a festive adult cocktail. This slow cooker cider is ideal for fall and holiday crowds, delivering a sweet, spiced flavor with easy preparation.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 6-8 cups apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole star anise (optional)
  • 2 apples (sliced)
  • 1 orange (sliced)

For Spiking and Garnish

  • Vodka (any flavor) or Fireball Whiskey, 1 ounce per serving
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Caramel sauce (for topping)
  • Cookies (for garnish, optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, sliced apples, and sliced orange into a 5-7 quart crockpot. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the flavors evenly.
  2. Heat the Cider: Set the crockpot to high heat and let the mixture warm for 2 to 4 hours until it is thoroughly hot and infused with the spices and fruit flavors.
  3. Serve Plain: Ladle the hot cider into mugs and serve as a warm, spiced non-alcoholic drink for all ages.
  4. Prepare Adult Cocktails: For each adult cocktail, pour 1 ounce of vodka or Fireball whiskey into a mug. Top with 1 to 2 cups of the hot spiced cider from the crockpot.
  5. Add Toppings and Garnish: Finish the cocktail by adding a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Optionally, serve with a cookie for an extra treat.

Notes

  • Spiked Crockpot Caramel Apple Cider is perfect for large gatherings and easy to prepare in advance.
  • Adjust the amount of alcohol to your preference or omit for a family-friendly version.
  • Star anise is optional but adds a subtle licorice flavor that complements the spices well.
  • Use fresh apples and orange slices to infuse natural fruity sweetness and aroma.
  • Keep the crockpot on warm setting after cooking to maintain temperature without overcooking the cider.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 249 kcal
  • Sugar: 42 g
  • Sodium: 115 mg
  • Fat: 0.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 0.2 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg