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
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve Plain: Ladle the warm cider into mugs and serve as a comforting non-alcoholic drink if desired.
- 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.
- 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