Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’m a fan of anything that makes the house smell like fall, and this recipe does exactly that with minimal effort. I just toss everything into the slow cooker, and a few hours later I’ve got a batch of deeply flavored, homemade cider ready to sip. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, perfect for holiday parties, and can be customized to suit whatever mood I’m in. No pre-cooking, no peeling — just chop, drop, and go.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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4 pounds apples, chopped (I used Ambrosia and Honeycrisp, but any eating apple works)
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½ cup brown sugar
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4 cinnamon sticks
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1 teaspoon ground allspice
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1 teaspoon whole cloves
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1 orange, chopped
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2 quarts water
Directions
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I add all the ingredients — apples, sugar, spices, orange, and water — straight into my crockpot.
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I set it on low and let it cook for 6 hours.
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Once the apples are soft and everything’s fragrant, I mash the entire mixture with a potato masher to release all the juicy flavor.
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Then I squeeze out as much liquid as I can from the fruit.
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I scoop out the big chunks, and pour the cider through a fine mesh strainer for a smooth finish.
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From there, it’s ready to serve right away or store for later.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 servings, depending on how large your mugs are. The prep takes only 10 minutes, and the slow cooker does the rest over 6 hours, for a total time of 6 hours and 10 minutes. It’s ideal for prepping earlier in the day and enjoying all evening.
Variations
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I sometimes add fresh ginger slices for an extra kick.
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Swapping brown sugar for maple syrup gives it a deeper, earthy sweetness.
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When I want a little adult flair, I’ll stir in a splash of spiced rum or bourbon just before serving.
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A pinch of nutmeg or a star anise pod can elevate the spice profile if I want something more aromatic.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When I want another cup, I just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. For longer storage, I freeze the cider in jars filled about 4/5 full to leave room for expansion. It keeps in the freezer for up to 3 months — perfect for enjoying even after fall has passed.
FAQs
Can I leave the peel on the apples?
Yes, I always leave the peels on since everything gets strained out at the end. It saves time and still gives full flavor.
What kind of apples are best?
I like to use a combination of sweet apples like Ambrosia or Honeycrisp. Any eating apple works — mixing a few types gives the best flavor.
Can I make this cider sweeter?
Absolutely. If I want it sweeter, I just stir in more brown sugar or a bit of maple syrup after tasting.
How do I keep the cider warm for a party?
I keep it on the “warm” setting in the crockpot. That way it stays hot for hours and guests can serve themselves.
Is it okay to freeze the cider?
Yes, it freezes very well. I just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion, and it lasts for several months.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Apple Cider is my go-to when I want something easy, seasonal, and comforting. It takes almost no effort to make, fills my home with the scent of fall, and tastes like a hug in a mug. Whether I’m making it for a quiet night in or a festive gathering, it’s a guaranteed hit — and a tradition I look forward to every year.
Print
Crockpot Apple Cider
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 cups
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Warm, spiced, and made totally from scratch—this crockpot apple cider is an easy slow-cooked fall favorite you’ll want to sip all season.
Ingredients
4 pounds apples, chopped (Ambrosia and Honeycrisp recommended, but any eating apple will work)
½ cup brown sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 orange, chopped
2 quarts water
Instructions
Place all ingredients into a crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
Once apples are soft, mash the entire contents with a potato masher.
Squeeze out as much juice as possible from the mashed apples and orange.
Scoop out large chunks and strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer.
Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for later.
Notes
To freeze: Use a freezer-safe jar filled about 4/5 full to allow for expansion. Seal tightly before freezing.
Reheat gently before serving.
Garnish with cinnamon sticks or orange slices for a festive touch.
Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adult version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
