Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider

Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider is the ultimate warm beverage for cozy fall and winter days. Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, this cider fills your home with a comforting fragrance while providing a flavorful, soothing drink. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a perfectly spiced cider that is easy to serve for gatherings, holidays, or quiet evenings at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is effortless yet delivers incredible flavor. The slow-cooked spices infuse the cider deeply, creating a rich, aromatic, and naturally sweet drink. It is perfect for sipping by the fire, entertaining guests, or gifting in jars. The preparation is minimal, and the results are consistently comforting and festive.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try recipe because it combines simplicity with seasonal charm. It is the perfect way to enjoy fresh apple cider with warm spices, and it can be customized with additional fruits, herbs, or spirits. Whether served at holiday parties, family gatherings, or on a quiet evening, this drink evokes cozy, festive vibes.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2–4 hours on low in crockpot
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes – 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6–8 cups
Approximate Calories: 120 calories per cup
Course: Beverage / Holiday Drink
Cuisine: American / Comfort

Ingredients

• 1 gallon fresh apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, adjust for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Optional garnish: additional orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise
• Optional: 1–2 cups spiced rum, bourbon, or apple brandy for adult version

Cooking Directions

Combine all ingredients in the crockpot and let spices infuse over low heat. Strain before serving if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Pour the apple cider into a crockpot.
Step 2: Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and sliced orange to the cider.
Step 3: Stir in brown sugar, nutmeg, and ginger until combined.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 2–4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop. Avoid boiling to preserve the cider’s natural sweetness.
Step 5: Optional: If making a spiked version, add alcohol 15–20 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Remove cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice before serving, or strain cider if desired.
Step 7: Serve hot in mugs and garnish with additional orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

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How to Serve This Recipe

Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or star anise for a festive presentation. It pairs wonderfully with holiday cookies, pies, or roasted nuts.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh apple cider for best flavor.
• Do not cook on high; prolonged high heat can reduce and overly concentrate the cider.
• Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
• Add fresh cranberries or apple slices for extra visual appeal and flavor.

Variations

Spiced Cranberry Apple Cider: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries during cooking.
Ginger Apple Cider: Add 1-inch fresh ginger slices for an extra zing.
Caramel Apple Cider: Drizzle caramel sauce into mugs before pouring cider.
Herbal Mulled Cider: Add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Adult Version: Add 1–2 cups bourbon, rum, or apple brandy before serving for a warming cocktail.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooled cider in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Freezing: Apple cider can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / slow cooker
• Stirring spoon
• Mug or heatproof glasses for serving
• Optional: Strainer to remove spices

Conclusion

Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider is a comforting, aromatic, and versatile beverage perfect for chilly days and festive occasions. Its easy preparation, combined with the depth of flavor from warming spices, makes it a must-have recipe for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Whether served classic or spiked, this cider fills your home with warmth, aroma, and a touch of holiday magic.

Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider

Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider is the ultimate warm beverage for cozy fall and winter days. Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, this cider fills your home with a comforting fragrance while providing a flavorful, soothing drink.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Soups & Drinks

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Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 4 hrs Total Time 4 hrs 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 8

Ingredients

Servings

• 1 gallon fresh apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• ¹⁄₄ cup brown sugar (optional, adjust for sweetness)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground ginger
• Optional garnish: additional orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise
• Optional: 1–2 cups spiced rum, bourbon, or apple brandy for adult version

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the apple cider into a crockpot.
2. Step 2: Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and sliced orange to the cider.
3. Step 3: Stir in brown sugar, nutmeg, and ginger until combined.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 2–4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop. Avoid boiling to preserve the cider's natural sweetness.
5. Step 5: Optional: If making a spiked version, add alcohol 15–20 minutes before serving.
6. Step 6: Remove cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice before serving, or strain cider if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve hot in mugs and garnish with additional orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

Keywords: Crockpot Mulled Apple Cider