Crockpot Apple Cider is a delightfully simple beverage that fills your home with the warm scents of fall. With just a handful of ingredients, this tasty recipe is perfect for busy days, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cider is easily customizable to fit your taste buds.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 1mg
Why Make Crockpot Apple Cider
Crockpot Apple Cider is not only delicious but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Apples are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this drink a healthy option for all ages. Additionally, the slow cooking process allows the natural sugars in the apples to caramelize, enhancing the cider’s sweetness while making it warm and comforting. You can easily adjust the spices and sweetness to suit your palate, making this cider as mild or as robust as you desire.
How to Make Crockpot Apple Cider Step by Step
Ingredients
8-12 apples (use different varieties), 4-5 cinnamon sticks, 1/2 Tbsp whole cloves, 1 tsp whole allspice, 1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar, 8 to 10 cups water
Directions
Wash and cut your apples into quarters. Add them to a 6 to 7-quart crockpot. The amount of apples you use will vary on their size, but you want enough to fill the crockpot. There is no need to remove the skins or core the apples. If using store-bought apples, I highly suggest removing the wax before adding. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and half the brown sugar right on top of the apples. Feel free to add more or less spice depending on how strong you like those flavors. Pour in enough water to cover the apples. This usually is around 8 to 10 cups of water, but this can vary depending on how many or how large the apples were and the size of your slow cooker. Cover and allow the apples to cook down on low for 7 to 11 hours or on high for around 4. You want the apples to be nice and soft when they are done. Use a potato masher to smash the apples into smaller pieces (do not use an immersion blender). Cook for an additional hour or so. Strain the solids from the liquid using a fine mesh strainer, a colander, or a sieve. You can strain the liquid a second time through a cheesecloth if desired. Taste and add more sugar if needed. If you prefer a more concentrated flavor, turn the crockpot to high and cook uncovered until it has reached your desired consistency and flavor. You can also boil the liquid on a stovetop as an alternative for a little bit. The finished cider can be enjoyed warm or cold. It will keep for up to a week in your refrigerator or can be frozen for longer storage. Enjoy!
How to Serve Crockpot Apple Cider
Crockpot Apple Cider is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a cozy evening, serve it warm in mugs alongside freshly baked cinnamon rolls or apple pie. You can also offer it chilled in glasses with a slice of apple or a cinnamon stick as a garnish, perfect for a summer barbecue. Pairing it with roasted nuts or cheese platters makes it great for gatherings.
How to Store Crockpot Apple Cider
Crockpot Apple Cider can be stored easily in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to let it cool completely before pouring it into an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze the cider for longer storage, just be sure to leave some space in the container as the liquid will expand.
Expert Tips for Cooking Crockpot Apple Cider
- Mix and match different apple varieties for a deeper flavor profile.
- Adjust the spices to your personal taste, adding more cinnamon for extra warmth or more sweetness with additional brown sugar.
- Experiment with adding citrus flavors like orange or lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor, as they will enhance the taste of your cider.
- For a spiced version, consider adding ginger slices or nutmeg.
Delicious Variations of Crockpot Apple Cider
You can create a unique twist on your Crockpot Apple Cider by trying out different flavors. For a spicier version, add a few slices of fresh ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you want a herby infusion, consider adding fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant lift. For a citrus twist, toss in some orange and lemon slices for a bright flavor contrast.
Crockpot Apple Cider is a delightful recipe that captures the essence of fall in every sip. Its ease and deliciousness make it a must-try for everyone. So gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let the enticing aromas fill your home! Enjoy the comforting flavors and share with family and friends.
Crockpot Apple Cider
Ingredients
Fruits
- 8-12 apples 8-12 apples (use different varieties) Different apple varieties can enhance flavor.
Spices
- 4-5 sticks 4-5 cinnamon sticks Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 Tbsp 1/2 Tbsp whole cloves Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp whole allspice Adjust to taste.
Sweetener
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup 1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar Add more sugar if desired.
Liquid
- 8-10 cups 8 to 10 cups water Add enough to cover the apples.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and cut your apples into quarters. Add them to a 6 to 7-quart crockpot.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and half the brown sugar on top.
- Pour enough water to cover the apples (approximately 8 to 10 cups).
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 11 hours or on high for about 4 hours until apples are soft.
- Use a potato masher to smash the apples into smaller pieces.
- Cook for an additional hour.
- Strain the solids from the liquid using a fine mesh strainer, a colander, or a sieve.
- Taste and add more sugar if needed. For a more concentrated flavor, cook uncovered on high.
- Enjoy warm or cold. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze leftovers.
