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Cozy Slow Cooker Apple Cider

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A rich, spiced apple cider made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe uses simple ingredients like fresh apples, cinnamon, and orange to create a warm, comforting beverage perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds fresh apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp/Fuji), chopped
  • 4 to 6 cups water
  • 3 to 4 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 2 pods star anise
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash apples thoroughly. Core and chop into rough 1-inch chunks, leaving skins on.
  2. Slice the orange into thin rounds and remove any seeds to prevent bitterness.
  3. Toss chopped apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and nutmeg into the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in water, ensuring apples are mostly submerged. Add more water if needed.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Do not cook on HIGH.
  6. After cooking, mash the apples against the side of the pot with a potato masher or large spoon to release juice.
  7. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve if a smooth cider is desired, pressing on solids to extract flavor. Discard solids.
  8. Taste the cider and add brown sugar or maple syrup if sweeter flavor is desired.
  9. Stir in vanilla extract right before serving.
  10. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.

Notes

Use whole spices instead of powder to avoid grittiness. Remove orange seeds to prevent bitterness. For a smoother texture, strain the cider after cooking. The cider can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove without boiling.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker apple cider, fall drinks, homemade cider, easy fall recipes, warm beverages, gluten-free drinks

Find it online: https://bakebeam.com/cozy-slow-cooker-apple-cider-4-ingredients-for-easy-warmth/