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Spiked Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Crockpot Apple Cider Recipe is a warm, cozy drink perfect for fall gatherings. Simmer apple cider with cinnamon, star anise, apples, and oranges to create a fragrant base, then serve it plain or spiked with vodka or Fireball Whiskey for an adult cocktail. Garnished with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and a cookie, this drink is an ideal festive treat for chilly days.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 6-8 cups apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 whole star anise (optional)
  • 2 apples (sliced)
  • 1 orange (sliced)

Adult Cocktail Additions

  • 1 ounce vodka (any flavor) or Fireball Whiskey per serving
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Caramel sauce for topping
  • Cookie for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Place the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, sliced apples, and sliced orange into a 5-7 quart crockpot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
  2. Heat Cider: Set the crockpot to high and heat the mixture for 2 to 4 hours, checking until the cider is hot and aromatic throughout.
  3. Serve Plain: Ladle the warm cider into mugs and serve as a comforting non-alcoholic drink if desired.
  4. Prepare Adult Cocktail: For each adult serving, pour 1 ounce of vodka or Fireball Whiskey into a mug, then top with 1 to 2 cups of the hot apple cider from the crockpot.
  5. Garnish: Top the cocktail with whipped cream and drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Add a cookie on the side for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes

  • For a stronger spice flavor, let the cider simmer longer on low heat, up to 4 hours.
  • If you prefer non-alcoholic, omit the vodka or whiskey and enjoy the cider as is.
  • Vanilla or cinnamon-flavored vodka works especially well to complement the cider's spices.
  • Use fresh cider rather than concentrate for best natural flavor.
  • Garnishing with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple adds extra aroma and presentation appeal.

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