Slow Cooker Spiked Apple Cider

This drink captures every single fall flavor you’re craving: warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and that perfect spiced kick, all in one incredibly easy recipe. This is absolutely foolproof. You literally dump everything in the slow cooker and walk away. Plus, the crockpot keeps it warm for hours, so everyone can serve themselves.

slow cooker with apple slices and whole spices.

I make this for every October gathering: book club nights, football watch parties, Halloween get-togethers, even just cozy Sunday afternoons when friends drop by.

What You’ll Need

Use whole spices instead of ground (like for the cinnamon). Ground will make it taste grainy, so if you can’t find whole, it’s better to just leave it out.

A Newsletter you’ll love

Daily recipes from the farmhouse, Sunday meal plans, seasonal ideas, straight from my kitchen to your inbox. 

If you want a weaker drink, start with 1 cup of spiced rum and add more after cooking. Or make a family-friendly version by skipping the spiced rum and adding more apple cider or a little orange juice for extra flavor.

ingredients and whole apples on plaid cloth

This will serve 8 people. If you want to double or triple the recipe, you can make adjustments in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Ingredients

  • ½ gallon apple cider
  • 2 oranges (sliced thin)
  • 2 apples (sliced into thin rounds horizontally)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (plus additional for garnish)
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 4 whole star anise (or whole cloves)
  • 1½ cups spiced rum (can use regular rum, bourbon, or whiskey. Add extra apple cider or a splash of orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.)
  • whipped cream (optional, for serving)
  • caramel topping (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Try the cider when it’s halfway done. If it’s not sweet enough, add more brown sugar or honey to make it as sweet as you like.

Step One: Add All Ingredients: Put the cider, sugar, fruit, spices, and liquor in the slow cooker. Stir it all together and cover it.

crockpot with cider and hand adding captain morgans rum

Step Two: Cook On Low: Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours.

Step Three: Serve: Pour into a mug and add whipped cream and caramel. Serve warm.

glass of cider plain and with whipped cream

Storage Instructions

You can store any leftovers in the fridge (I like to use a quart-sized mason jar). It will stay fresh for about 3 days.

Just reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a little splash of rum (or not) before serving.

What to Serve with Spiked Apple Cider

This drink goes with all your classic fall foods.

Answering Your Questions

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Absolutely. Just simmer on low for about 30 minutes.

Do I have to use alcohol?

No, you can absolutely make this without any liquor. It will still be delicious!

What kind of apples should I use?

It really doesn’t matter. You’re starting with pre-made apple cider, so it’s no big deal.

glass of cider with whipped cream and caramel

More Apple Recipes

Fall means apples…and baking!

Printable Recipe

Slow Cooker Spiked Apple Cider

A warm and spiced fall drink, with a kick. This crockpot drink makes the whole house smell amazing and is just about the coziest thing ever. Makes 8 drinks.
Print Recipe
slow cooker with cider, spices, and oranges.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:2 hours
Total Time:2 hours 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Ingredients

  • ½ gallon apple cider
  • 2 oranges (sliced thin)
  • 2 apples (sliced into thin rounds horizontally)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (plus additional for garnish)
  • cup brown sugar
  • 4 star anise
  • 4 whole cloves
  • cups spiced rum (or other liquor of your choice)
  • whipped cream (optional, for serving)
  • caramel topping (optional, for serving)

Save This Recipe

I’ll send you a link so you can find it later.

You'll join my email list which you will love. And if you don't, unsubscribe in one click. ❤️

Instructions

  • Add ingredients. Pour the apple cider into the slow cooker. Then, add the thinly sliced oranges and apples. After that, add the cinnamon sticks and star anise into the mixture. Sprinkle in the brown sugar. Pour in the spiced rum or your preferred liquor. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
  • Cook. Set the slow cooker to low heat. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to help the flavors blend.
  • Serve. Pour the warm cider into mugs. If you like, you can add a bit of whipped cream and caramel on top. If you want, you can also add an extra cinnamon stick. Serve right away and enjoy the warmth.

Notes

Remember to use whole spices because ground cinnamon can make your drink gritty. If you can’t find whole spices, it’s better to leave it out.
To create a pretty star pattern in the apples, slice them through their “equator.”
You can use any type of alcohol, such as bourbon or apple brandy.

Nutrition

Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 13mg | Potassium: 371mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 39g | Vitamin A: 105IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 291kcal
Author: Katie Shaw

Did You Make This?

I would love it if you would leave a review!

Love,

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating