Fall is the perfect season for cozy gatherings and warm drinks, and there’s nothing quite like a homemade spiced apple cider to set the mood! This Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and customizable. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying the crisp autumn air, this delightful drink will warm your heart and spice up your day.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 110
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 3mg
Why Make Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties
This Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Made with fresh apples and warm spices, it’s a healthier alternative to many store-bought beverages. With ingredients you can easily tailor to your taste, this recipe allows you to experiment with excess fruits like cranberries or add a splash of vanilla for a unique twist. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot means you can prepare it in advance, leaving you free to enjoy time with your guests.
How to Make Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties Step by Step
Ingredients
8-10 medium fresh apples (mix of sweet and tart, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith), cored and quartered
2 medium oranges, sliced (peel on, seeds removed if visible)
3-4 whole cinnamon sticks
8-10 whole cloves
5-6 allspice berries (optional)
1-inch knob fresh ginger, sliced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
1-2 star anise (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (or maple syrup or honey, to taste)
10 cups water (about 2.4 liters, enough to cover fruit)
Optional: 1/2 cup cranberries
Optional: 1 split vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Wash apples and oranges thoroughly. Core and quarter apples (no need to peel). Slice oranges into rounds, removing seeds if needed. Slice ginger if using fresh.
Place apple quarters and orange slices into the crockpot. Add cranberries if using. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, ginger, and star anise.
Pour in 10 cups of water, enough to cover the fruit but not exceed the crockpot’s max fill line.
Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until apples are soft and flavors are well blended.
Use a potato masher or sturdy spoon to gently mash the fruit to release more flavor.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher to remove solids and spices.
Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey to taste (start with 1/4 cup and add more if desired). If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
Serve hot in mugs, garnished with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or cranberries. Keep crockpot on ‘warm’ for parties. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers as needed.
How to Serve Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties
Serve your delicious Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties alongside a platter of warm pastries or pumpkin bread to enhance the experience. This cider also pairs well with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar and creamy brie or alongside roasted nuts for a savory contrast. For a festive touch, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum for adult gatherings.
How to Store Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties
To store your leftover cider, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cider in freezer-safe containers for up to three months—just remember to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Expert Tips for Cooking Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more balanced flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of sugar or sweeteners according to your taste preference.
- For a deeper flavor, roast the fruit and spices in the oven before adding them to the crockpot.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices such as cardamom or nutmeg for unique flavors.
- Keep a strainer handy for serving to allow guests to choose whether they want any solids in their drink.
Delicious Variations of Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties
- For a spicier kick, add extra cinnamon sticks or a touch of cayenne pepper.
- Incorporate a range of citrus fruits like grapefruit or lemon for a zesty twist.
- Turn it into a hot toddy by adding whiskey and a dash of lemon juice for an adult version.
This Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe – Easy Spiced Drink for Fall Parties is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The rich flavors and warm spices create an inviting atmosphere that’s hard to resist. So gather your ingredients, let the magical aroma fill your home, and enjoy sharing this delicious drink with family and friends!
Crockpot Apple Cider
Ingredients
Fruits
- 8-10 medium fresh apples (mix of sweet and tart, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith), cored and quartered
- 2 medium oranges, sliced (peel on, seeds removed if visible)
- 1/2 cup cranberries (optional) Add for additional flavor
Spices
- 3-4 whole cinnamon sticks
- 8-10 whole cloves
- 5-6 whole allspice berries (optional)
- 1 inch knob fresh ginger, sliced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger) Use fresh for better flavor
- 1-2 pieces star anise (optional)
Sweetener
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (or maple syrup or honey, to taste) Adjust based on sweetness preference
Liquid
- 10 cups water (about 2.4 liters, enough to cover fruit)
Optional Flavoring
- 1 split vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Add for a unique twist
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash apples and oranges thoroughly. Core and quarter apples (no need to peel). Slice oranges into rounds, removing seeds if needed. Slice ginger if using fresh.
- Place apple quarters and orange slices into the crockpot. Add cranberries if using.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, ginger, and star anise.
- Pour in 10 cups of water, enough to cover the fruit but not exceed the crockpot's max fill line.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until apples are soft and flavors are well blended.
- Use a potato masher or sturdy spoon to gently mash the fruit to release more flavor.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher to remove solids and spices.
Serving
- Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey to taste (start with 1/4 cup and add more if desired). If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
- Serve hot in mugs, garnished with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or cranberries. Keep crockpot on ‘warm’ for parties.
