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Cozy Slow Cooker Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

slow cooker spiked apple cider - featured image

This slow cooker spiked apple cider fills your home with a warm, spiced aroma and delivers comfort in a mug without keeping you tied to the stove. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 64 ounces apple cider
  • 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
  • 1 large apple, sliced into rings
  • 45 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 23 whole star anise (optional)
  • 23 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • Bourbon or dark rum (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prep the fruit: Wash the orange and apple thoroughly. Slice both into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
  2. Combine the base: Pour the entire 64-ounce bottle of apple cider into the slow cooker. Add the maple syrup and stir briefly to combine.
  3. Add the spices: Drop in the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise (if using).
  4. Layer the fruit: Gently place the orange and apple slices on top of the liquid.
  5. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let it simmer for at least 2 hours, up to 4 hours.
  6. Add the alcohol (optional): If adding bourbon or rum directly to the pot, stir it in about 10 minutes before serving. Alternatively, let guests spike their own.
  7. Serve warm: Ladle the cider into mugs, making sure to include a slice of softened orange or apple in each cup.

Notes

Do not boil the cider; keep on LOW. Taste before adding sweetener as apple cider sweetness varies. For a clearer drink, strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen (without alcohol) for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, spiked apple cider, cocktail, holiday, warm drink, bourbon, rum, mulled cider