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Crockpot Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 144 reviews

This cozy Crockpot Spiced Apple Cider recipe infuses apple cider with fragrant oranges, whole cloves, warm cinnamon sticks, and star anise, creating a warm and inviting drink perfect for cold weather. Enhanced with a splash of brandy or your choice of liquor, it brings a comforting kick to the classic fall beverage.

Ingredients

Scale

Spiced Apple Cider

  • 1 gallon apple cider
  • 2 oranges, sliced
  • 5 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 star anise pods (optional)
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves

Liquor Options

  • 2 cups brandy (or apple brandy or Fireball cinnamon whiskey)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oranges: Slice the oranges and use a knife to make small holes in the rinds. Insert the whole cloves into these holes to prevent them from floating in the cider during cooking.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the apple cider, sliced oranges with cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods (if using), and whole cloves.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the mixture for 4 hours. This allows the cider to infuse with the warm spices and citrus aroma, filling your kitchen with cozy scents.
  4. Add Alcohol: Just before serving, stir in the brandy, apple brandy, or Fireball whiskey to the hot cider for a spirited twist.
  5. Serve Warm: Ladle the spiced cider into mugs, garnishing with extra cinnamon sticks or star anise if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the warming flavors.
  6. Storage and Reheating: If needed, keep the cider warm on the slow cooker’s “keep warm” setting for up to two hours or reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave later.

Notes

  • Whole spices are preferred over ground spices to infuse the best flavor without clouding the cider.
  • Cloves inserted into orange slices avoid floating cloves in the drink, enhancing presentation and flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of alcohol to taste, or omit entirely for a non-alcoholic version suitable for all ages.
  • Use a good quality, unfiltered, unsweetened apple cider for the best flavor depth.
  • The star anise adds a lovely licorice note but is optional.
  • Try Fireball cinnamon whiskey for a spicier cinnamon kick or apple brandy for a sweeter flavor variation.

Keywords: spiced apple cider, crockpot apple cider, slow cooker apple cider, fall drinks, warm alcoholic drinks, brandy apple cider, holiday drinks

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/crockpot-spiced-apple-cider-recipe/