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Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider

Warm and comforting spiced apple cider, perfect for chilly days and gatherings, infused with apple juice, spices, and orange slices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 325
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 cups unfiltered apple juice or apple cider Choose high-quality unfiltered cider for the best flavor.
  • 1 whole orange, sliced into rounds Provides a bright, citrusy twist.
  • 3 sticks cinnamon sticks Add more for garnish.
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves Note they can be a choking hazard.
  • 2 pods star anise Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar Optional for sweetness; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Complements the spices.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pour the apple juice or cider into your slow cooker.
  2. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise pods.
  3. If using, add the packed light brown sugar and sprinkle in the ground nutmeg.
  4. Stir everything gently to combine all the flavors.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low, cooking for 3 to 4 hours, or high for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  2. The cider is ready when it's fragrant and hot throughout.
Serving
  1. Taste the cider and adjust sweetness with more brown sugar if desired.
  2. Strain out the whole spices and orange slices if preferred, or leave them in for a rustic look.
  3. Ladle the hot cider into mugs and garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick.
  4. Keep the slow cooker on the warm setting as you serve.
Storage
  1. Refrigerate any leftover cider in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  2. Reheat on the stove or microwave gently.

Notes

This cider pairs well with pretzels, cornbread, cheese plates, and sweet treats like gingerbread cookies.