Slow Cooker Cider
Warm, spiced apple cider infused with cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and orange slices creates a cozy beverage perfect for gatherings and chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and whole allspice in a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up the corners of cloth and tie with a string to form a spice bag.
- Place apple cider and brown sugar in a slow cooker; stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add the spice bag to the slow cooker.
- Place orange slices on top of the cider mixture.
- Cover and cook for 2 to 5 hours.
- Remove the spice bag before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the cider before serving. If you don't have whole spices, ground spices can be used, but reduce the amounts and add them directly to the cider mixture. You can also experiment with additional fruits, like apples or cranberries, for extra flavor. This warm cider pairs beautifully with Fried Apple Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the warm cider in mugs, garnished with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick for added flair. It makes a delightful holiday beverage and pairs well with sweet treats like Brittany'S Cinnamon Rolls or savory snacks. This cider is also a great addition to festive gatherings, serving as a cozy drink option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, pour the cider into a saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the slow cooker on low for about an hour before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow Cooker Cider contains roughly 690 calories, with 15g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (298% of the Daily Value), iron (161% of the Daily Value), and calcium (123% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought apple juice for apple cider, but the flavor will be slightly different. Cider has a more complex, spiced flavor profile, while juice is usually sweeter. If using juice, consider adjusting the sugar to taste.
What can I do with the leftover spiced orange slices?
After simmering, the orange slices can be used as a garnish for cocktails or desserts. Alternatively, you can compost them or blend them into a smoothie for added flavor. They add a nice touch to drinks and recipes, enhancing the overall taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Slow Cooker Cider is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a perfect warm beverage for everyone, including those following vegan recipes. Just ensure that any optional alcohol added is also vegan-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).