Warm, spiced Slow Cooker Apple Cider is the lazy way to make this cozy fall drink. It’s made with real cider, a vanilla bean, and warm spiced and simmered for hours in a crockpot. Perfect for holiday parties or whenever you’re craving something warm and hot on a crisp day.
Warm Spices, Fresh Citrus, and the Flavor of Autumn
When the weather starts to cool down, you better believe I’m whipping out the crockpot and making this apple cider recipe. It starts with store-bought apple cider, an optional scoop of brown sugar (if you like it super sweet), then some vanilla, a sliced orange, and spices.
Everything goes right into the crockpot and simmers on low. After a few hours, you’ll have a spiced cider drink that is a step above anything you’d find at the store.
To soften the spiciness of the cider, I added a vanilla bean for a bit of warmth. It’s understated, but you’ll notice how much it elevates the cider. If your cider is already sweet, you can skip the brown sugar without even noticing.
I like serving this straight from the slow cooker, ladled into mugs. For a more indulgent treat, top it with whipped cream and drizzle homemade caramel sauce across the foam for a Starbucks version. It turns into a dessert drink that feels festive enough for a holiday party, but simple enough for a regular autumn weeknight.
An added benefit is that your house will smell fabulous!
Ingredient Notes
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect apple cider at home. Don’t forget to check the recipe card for all the details.
- Apple cider: A gallon of fresh apple cider is what you want for this recipe. Look for one labeled “100% apple cider,” not juice or with other added flavors.
- Vanilla bean: Adds warmth and depth. If you don’t have one, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Let the Slow Cooker Do the Work
Step One: Sweeten the Base
Pour the apple cider into your slow cooker and stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves.
Step Two: Add Flavor
Drop in the vanilla bean, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and sliced orange.
Step Three: Let It Simmer
Step Four: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into mugs. Keep it simple, or add whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a treat that doubles as dessert.
Don’t Forget!
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Ingredients
- ½ gallon apple cider
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange sliced
Instructions
- Add the apple cider to a slow cooker and add brown sugar. Stir until it has dissolved then add the entire vanilla bean, cloves, cinnamon stick and slices of an orange.
- Cook on low for 2 hours.
- Serve plain or add whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Notes
- You can serve this directly from the slow cooker which will keep it warm for parties.
- To rewarm, just place it in the microwave.
- You can adjust the spices per your preferences.
