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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.

Cozy up this autumn with a mug of something sweet and warm. This easy recipe is perfect for gatherings or a relaxing night in.

slow cooker with apple slices and whole spices.

❤️ Why you’ll love this recipe

  • So easy. Just dump everything in the crockpot and let it do its thing!
  • Great for parties. It’s perfect for entertaining because you can make a big batch and keep it warm all night.
  • Absolutely delicious. The combination of apple cider, oranges, apples, cinnamon, and star anise is impossible to resist. And whipped cream caramel makes it even better.

This is an overview of the ingredients. You’ll find the full measurements and instructions in the printable recipe at the bottom of the page.

ingredients and whole apples on plaid cloth

Here’s what you’ll need to make this warming drink:

  • apple cider
  • oranges 
  • fresh apples 
  • cinnamon sticks
  • brown sugar
  • star anise
  • spiced rum (really any dark liquor will do. Try cinnamon whiskey, any dark rum, or brandy)
  • whipped cream
  • caramel topping
  • just a crockpot!

🍴Instructions

Step One: add all ingredients

crockpot with cider and hand adding captain morgans rum

Put the cider, sugar, fruit, spices, and liquor in the slow cooker. Stir it all together and cover it.

Step Two: cook on low

Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours.

Step three: serve

glass of cider plain and with whipped cream

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

🥫 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.

🔍 FAQs

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.

👩🏻‍🍳 Expert tips

  • Make sure to use whole spices. Ground cinnamon will leave your drink gritty. Better to just leave it out if you can’t find what you need.
  • If you want to get the pretty star pattern in the apples, slice them through their “equator”.
  • Thin slices of apple and orange will float in the crockpot, which looks very nice.

📘 Related Recipes

If you’re in the cider mood, try these too:

🍽 Serve it with

Having a fall gathering? Here are some more delicious ideas:

glass of cider with whipped cream and caramel

📖 Here’s the recipe

slow cooker with cider, spices, and oranges.
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Spiked Slow Cooker Apple Cider

Print Recipe
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.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Click here for a FREE autumn cookbook (25+ Recipes!)

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
  • cup brown sugar
  • 4 star anise
  • cups spiced rum or other liquor of your choice
  • whipped cream optional, for serving
  • caramel topping optional, for serving

Instructions

  • Place the cider, sugar, fruit, spices, and liquor in the slow cooker. Stir well and cover.
  • Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours.
  • Ladle into a warm mug and top with whipped cream and caramel.

Notes

Feel free to use any type of alcohol.  Bourbon or apple brandy are both good choices. 
To get the pretty star pattern in the apples, slice them through their “equator”.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 183kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 246mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 66IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: apple cider with alcohol, hot spiced cider, slow cooker spiked apple cider
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 183kcal
Author: Katie Shaw
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