This spiked crockpot apple cider is the perfect drink for fall, and it’ll make your home smell so cozy with the warm spices and sweet apples.

This recipe is also easy to make, so it’s great for get-togethers or just for a chill night at home. So get those ingredients and enjoy a relaxing evening with a cup of this by the fire.

Prep Time:10

Cook Time:1

Total Time:1 10

Equipment

Slow cooker

Ingredients

½ gallon apple cider
2 oranges (sliced thin)
2 apples (sliced into thin rounds horizonally)
2 cinnamon sticks (plus additional for garnish)
⅓ cup brown sugar
4 star anise
1½ cups spiced rum (or other liquor of your choice)
whipped cream (optional, for serving)
caramel topping (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. 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.

Thin slices of apple and orange will float in the crockpot, which looks nice.

Finally, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick and a slice of apple or orange for a festive touch that makes the drink look as good as it tastes.

Nutrition

Servings: people

Calories: 183kcal

Author: Katie Shaw

More Tips:

Using fresh orange juice and apple slices will make your cider taste better. Don’t use pre-cut fruit because it might have preservatives that can change the flavor.

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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.

If you want a weaker drink, start with 1 cup of spiced rum and add more after the cooked cider. You can adjust the amount of alcohol to your taste.

If you’re serving this at a party, keep the slow cooker in the “warm” setting at the right temperature without overcooking.

For a family-friendly version, skip the spiced rum and add more apple cider or a little orange juice for extra flavor.

slow cooker with apple slices and whole spices.

Serving Suggestions

This apple cider drink pairs well with cinnamon sugar donuts, cheddar cheese and crackers, pumpkin bread, apple pie slices, red potato salad, skillet mac and cheese, or caramel apple cobbler.

About the Ingredients

Here are some ingredient swaps you can make for this recipe:

ingredients and whole apples on plaid cloth

Star anise: Use a few whole cloves or a pinch of ground nutmeg instead of star anise. This spice might not be available in all grocery stores. Check the spice aisle or look in specialty food stores or online.
Spiced rum: Use regular rum, bourbon, or whiskey. Add extra apple cider or a splash of orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Brown sugar: Replace with white sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
Cinnamon sticks: Use 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon if sticks are unavailable.

These alternatives might give the cider a slightly different flavor, so try and see which you prefer!

Storage Instructions

Keep the cider cool, then put it in a sealed container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Warm it up gently on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving.

It’s not good for freezing because of the alcohol and fruit. As explained above, it’s tastiest when enjoyed fresh or kept in the fridge.

Enjoy the cozy warmth and delightful flavors of this apple cider drink. It’s perfect for any fall gathering or a quiet evening at home.

Its easy preparation and inviting aroma will surely become a seasonal favorite. Give it a try, and savor the comfort of this delicious drink throughout the fall and winter months.