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Cozy Slow Cooker Apple Cider with Cinnamon

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This cozy slow cooker apple cider with cinnamon is a warm, comforting drink made with simple ingredients like apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks. It’s easy to prepare, fills your home with a delightful aroma, and is perfect for chilly days or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6–8 medium apples, quartered (mix of Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith)
  • 1 large orange, sliced into rounds (peel on)
  • 4–5 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 2–3 star anise pods (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries (or ½ teaspoon ground allspice)
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
  • 8 cups water
  • Additional cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
  • Orange slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Apple slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Rum or bourbon (for adult version, optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples and orange thoroughly. Quarter the apples (no need to peel or core). Slice the orange into ¼-inch rounds (peel on).
  2. Place the apple quarters and orange slices in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise (if using), and allspice berries.
  3. Drizzle the maple syrup or honey over the fruit and spices. Pour in the water, ensuring it covers the fruit by about an inch. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set to low. Cook for 6-8 hours (or on high for 3-4 hours, though flavor will be less developed).
  5. After 6 hours, check the apples—they should be soft and falling apart. The liquid should be deep amber and aromatic.
  6. Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, gently mash the apples and oranges in the slow cooker to release remaining juice.
  7. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher or heatproof container. Pour the cider through the strainer to remove solids. For clearer cider, strain twice or line the strainer with cheesecloth.
  8. Taste the cider and adjust sweetness or spice as needed. If too tart, add more maple syrup; if not spicy enough, steep another cinnamon stick for 15 minutes.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with a fresh cinnamon stick, orange slice, or apple slices. For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to each mug.

Notes

For best flavor, use a mix of apple varieties. Tie whole cloves and allspice in a cheesecloth bundle for easier straining. Cider can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days; flavors deepen overnight. To freeze, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop or in slow cooker.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker apple cider, cinnamon apple cider, homemade apple cider, fall drink, warm cider, easy cider recipe

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/cozy-slow-cooker-apple-cider-with-cinnamon/