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4.50 from 2 votes

Slow Cooker Apple Cider

Make this easy Slow Cooker Apple Cider with fresh apples, cinnamon, and cloves — a festive, cozy drink for the holidays.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 5 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American Classic
Servings: 10 servings
Author: Kristin Maxwell

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  • 10 cups Water
  • 10 Apples mix of granny smith, gala, and other varieties (1 apple per cup water)
  • 1 Large navel orange
  • 5 Cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon Whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon Whole allspice
  • ½ cup Light brown sugar more or less to taste

Instructions

  • Wash apples and cut into halves or quarters and set aside. Wash and cut orange Into thick slices.
  • Add the prepared apples, oranges and spices to the crockpot and fill with 10 cups of water.
  • Cover and cook on high heat for 3 hours.
  • Use a potato masher to press the cooked apples and oranges.
  • Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
  • Cover and cook for one additional hour. Taste test and adjust brown sugar according to preference.
  • Strain using a mesh strainer, keeping liquid and discarding solids.
  • Serve warm or chill overnight for cold cider.

Notes

  • Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor.
  • No need to peel — the skins add color and depth.
  • Replace 1–2 cups of water with apple juice for a stronger flavor.
  • Start with less sugar and adjust after tasting.
  • Tie spices in cheesecloth for easy removal.
  • Strain twice for a smoother cider.
  • Keep on “Warm” for up to 3 hours while serving.
  • Add orange slices or cinnamon sticks for a pretty presentation.
  • Stir in bourbon or rum before serving for an adult version.
  • Refrigerator: Store cider in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • Freezer: Cool completely, then transfer to freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months. Be sure to leave about an inch at the top for expansion.

Nutrition

Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 247mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 31g | Vitamin A: 136IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg

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