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
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve Plain: Ladle the hot cider into mugs and serve as a warm, spiced non-alcoholic drink for all ages.
- 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.
- 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