Description
This cozy Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe is perfect for fall gatherings and chilly evenings. Infused with cinnamon sticks, star anise, fresh apples, and orange slices, this warm cider can be served plain or spiked with vodka or Fireball whiskey for a delightful adult cocktail. Garnished with whipped cream and caramel sauce, it’s a flavorful and festive drink to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Cider Base
- 6-8 cups apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole star anise (optional)
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
Cocktail Additions
- Vodka (any flavor) or Fireball Whiskey, 1 ounce per serving
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Caramel sauce, for topping
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, sliced apples, and sliced orange into a 5-7 quart crockpot. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Heat the Cider: Set crockpot to high and heat the mixture for 2-4 hours, or until the cider is hot and infused with the spices and fruit flavors.
- Serve Plain or Spiked: Serve the hot cider plain for a family-friendly beverage, or prepare adult cocktails by adding 1 ounce of vodka or Fireball whiskey to a mug and topping it off with 1-2 cups of the warm cider.
- Add Garnishes: For the cocktail, top with whipped cream and drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Optionally, add a cookie on the side as a garnish.
Notes
- This drink is perfect for fall and holiday gatherings, serving up to 12 people.
- Star anise is optional but adds a lovely licorice flavor that complements the cinnamon and fruit.
- Adjust sweetness by choosing your favorite apple cider brand or adding a little honey or brown sugar if desired.
- You can swap the vodka for Fireball whiskey depending on preferred flavor and spice level.
- To keep it non-alcoholic, simply omit the spirits and enjoy a warm spiced cider.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 249 kcal
- Sugar: 42 g
- Sodium: 115 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg