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Cozy Slow Cooker Mulled Apple Cider: Easy Homemade Recipe

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This cozy slow cooker mulled apple cider is the ultimate party drink—incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients, it fills your home with a holiday aroma and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 64 ounces (1.89 liters) apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 large orange, washed and sliced into rounds
  • 4–5 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 3–4 whole star anise
  • 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (for garnish, optional)
  • Rum, bourbon, or brandy (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Orange: Wash the orange thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Optionally, stud each round with a few whole cloves by pushing them into the orange peel.
  2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Pour the apple cider into the slow cooker. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, any remaining whole cloves, and maple syrup or brown sugar if using. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Set and Forget: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Do not let it boil; a gentle simmer is perfect.
  4. Taste and Adjust: After about 2 hours on low, taste the cider. Adjust sweetness or spice level as desired. Continue cooking until the flavor is to your liking.
  5. Remove the Spices (Optional): Before serving, use a slotted spoon to remove the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange slices to prevent the flavor from becoming too strong.
  6. Serve Warm: Ladle the warm mulled cider into mugs. Garnish with fresh cranberries if desired. For an adult version, let guests add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy.

Notes

Do not let the cider boil, as it can become bitter. Whole spices are essential for a clear, non-gritty texture. The cider can be made a day ahead and reheated. For a stovetop version, combine ingredients in a large pot and simmer over low heat for 30-45 minutes. For an Instant Pot, use the Slow Cook function on low for 3-4 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled apple cider, slow cooker cider, holiday drink, warm apple cider, spiced cider, easy cider recipe, party drink, non-alcoholic, gluten-free, vegan

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/cozy-slow-cooker-mulled-apple-cider-easy-homemade-recipe/