A holiday essential that smells like Christmas morning
This slow cooker spiced apple cider is the ultimate holiday hack. Let it simmer all day and your house will radiate with cozy Christmas aromas. With just 10 minutes of prep, it's the easiest way to create a festive atmosphere that feels like magic.
Perfect for holiday mornings, cozy evenings, or any time you want to bring the Christmas spirit indoors. The combination of cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange slices creates an irresistible aroma that's worth every sip.
This recipe requires just one pot and minimal effort - simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let the holiday magic happen. The result is a warm, spiced cider that smells like a Christmas market in your kitchen.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just enjoying a quiet evening, this cider brings warmth and comfort to every sip. The spices mingle with the apple juice to create a flavor profile that's both familiar and festive.
Pair it with gingerbread cookies, Christmas cookies, or a slice of festive cake for the perfect holiday treat. The steam rising from the mugs with cinnamon sticks and orange slices makes it look as good as it tastes.
Why This Recipe Works
Effortless Holiday Magic
One-pot wonder that fills your home with Christmas aromas without any stress. Just set it and forget it!
Affordable Luxury
Create a festive atmosphere with simple ingredients that cost less than $10 total.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Great for Christmas morning, holiday parties, or any time you want cozy warmth.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Let the whole family enjoy this tasty, non-alcoholic version of spiced cider.
Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider
The ultimate Christmas aroma in a mug!
Ingredients
- - 6 cups apple juice (100% juice, not from concentrate)
- - 2 cups water
- - 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- - 1/4 cup brown sugar
- - 2 cinnamon sticks
- - 2 whole cloves
- - 1 star anise
- - 1 orange (sliced into thin rounds)
Instructions
Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
💡 Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for optimal results
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
💡 The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavors become
Strain and Serve: Remove cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise before serving.
💡 Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and orange slice
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apple Juice
Use 100% apple juice for best flavor. Avoid juice from concentrate as it can alter the taste.
Substitutions: Apple cider (unpasteurized) or a combination of apple juice and apple cider
Cinnamon Sticks
These add a subtle warmth that enhances the apple flavor. You can use ground cinnamon if needed (1 teaspoon).
Substitutions: Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
Apple Cider Vinegar
Balances the sweetness and adds depth. You can substitute with white vinegar if needed.
Substitutions: White vinegar (1/4 cup)
Orange Slices
Add a bright citrus note that complements the spices. You can use lemon slices instead.
Substitutions: Lemon slices
Pro Tips for Perfect Spiced Apple Cider
Flavor Boost
Add a peeled apple (like Honeycrisp) for extra flavor and aroma. The apple will float and add visual appeal.
Cooking Time
For a stronger flavor, cook on LOW for 8 hours. The longer simmer time allows the spices to fully develop.
Sweetness Control
Adjust the brown sugar to taste. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if desired.
Serving Tip
Serve in mugs with cinnamon sticks and orange slices for a festive presentation. Add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Apple Cider with Apple
Add a peeled apple (like Honeycrisp) for extra flavor and aroma. The apple will float and add visual appeal.
Alcoholic Version
Add 1/2 cup bourbon or rum for an adult version. Serve with a splash of cream for a spiced cider cocktail.
Cranberry Apple Cider
Add 1 cup cranberry juice for a tart twist. The combination of sweet and tart flavors is amazing.
Spiced Apple Cider with Vanilla
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a warm, spiced flavor. This version pairs beautifully with gingerbread cookies.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Gingerbread cookies - The spicy warmth of gingerbread complements the spiced cider perfectly
- Christmas cookies - The sweet, spiced flavors work harmoniously with classic holiday cookies
- Festive cake - A slice of spiced apple cake or gingerbread cake pairs beautifully with the cider
🍷 Drink Pairings:
This spiced cider is best enjoyed on its own, but you can pair it with a spiced rum or a dark beer for a stronger flavor experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the cider up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of apple juice if it's too thick.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Simmer the ingredients on low heat for 1-2 hours. Be sure to monitor the temperature to avoid boiling.
Q: How can I make it more spiced?
A: Add an extra cinnamon stick, clove, or star anise. You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Q: Can I make it without apple cider vinegar?
A: Yes, you can substitute with white vinegar or omit it entirely. The cider vinegar adds a nice balance of tartness.
Q: How long will it keep?
A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor actually improves after sitting for a day or two.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker spiced apple cider is more than just a drink - it's an experience. The aroma alone is worth making, but the warm, spiced flavor will make you want to sip it all day long.
Whether you're enjoying it on Christmas morning, during a holiday party, or just wanting to bring some Christmas magic into your home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The combination of cinnamon, apple, and warm spices creates a cozy, comforting drink that feels like a hug in a mug.