Description
A warm and comforting Slow Cooker Mulled Cider recipe combining apple cider, orange juice, and aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy gatherings, this spiced cider simmers gently to meld flavors, creating a deliciously fragrant and festive beverage ideal for cold days.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
Sweeteners
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Spices
- 5 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice
- 5 star anise
Fruit
- 1 orange, sliced
Garnishes (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Orange slices
- Apple slices
- Fresh whipped cream
- Mug cookies
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, pour in 8 cups of apple cider and 2 cups of orange juice. Add 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 5 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon each of whole cloves and whole allspice, and 5 star anise pods. Whisk gently until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Add Orange Slices: Place the sliced orange over the top of the liquid and spices in the slow cooker. This will infuse a fresh citrus aroma into the cider as it cooks.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld slowly, or on high for 2 to 3 hours if you need it ready sooner. The cider should be hot and fragrant once done.
- Strain and Prepare to Serve: Before serving, carefully strain the mulled cider to remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, star anise, and orange slices for a smooth beverage.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the warm mulled cider into mugs. Optionally, add fresh orange or apple slices to each mug and garnish with cinnamon sticks, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or serve alongside mug cookies for a festive touch.
Notes
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor.
- Cooking on low heat for a longer duration intensifies the spices and makes the cider richer.
- Can be made ahead; keep warm in the slow cooker on the ‘keep warm’ setting.
- For extra sweetness, adjust the brown sugar to taste.
- Straining ensures the drink is smooth without any leftover spice bits.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mulled cider, slow cooker cider, spiced apple cider, warm holiday drink, fall beverage
