This Crockpot Apple Cider is the coziest thing you can make when the weather turns chilly.
It smells amazing while it cooks, it tastes like fall in a mug, and it’s super simple.
Toss everything in the slow cooker, let it do its thing, and boom — warm spiced cider that feels like a hug.
This one is a go-to for holidays, cozy nights in, or when you want your house to smell like cinnamon and apples.
It’s warm, sweet, and just the right amount of spiced.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those recipes that feels like home. I first made it on a rainy October weekend while trying to recreate the cozy smells of an orchard. It worked. The smell alone got my neighbors asking what I was making. It’s become a yearly tradition.
- No peeling or chopping tiny pieces — just rough quartering
- Makes your home smell better than any candle
- One pot, no mess
- Easy to double for parties or gatherings
- Feels festive without being fussy
What You’ll Need
- 10 medium apples (mix of sweet and tart – like Fuji and Granny Smith), quartered
- 1 medium white orange, sliced (keep the peel on)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 8 cups water
Servings and Time
Servings: 8
Cook Time: 6 hours on LOW or 3 hours on HIGH
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Simmering the apples and spices over several hours breaks down the fruit and extracts flavor from the peels, pulp, and spices. Leaving the peel on helps release pectin, which adds body and slight richness. Brown sugar deepens the sweetness and enhances the spices without overpowering them.
Common Mistakes
- Using only sweet apples – You want a mix (like tart Granny Smith and sweet Fuji) for a balanced flavor.
- Not straining well – Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to avoid pulp or spice bits in your drink.
- Over-sweetening – Start with less sugar; you can always add more at the end.
- Forgetting the orange peel adds bitterness – Slice it, but don’t toss the whole thing in unless you like a slightly bitter note.
What to Serve With
- Warm cinnamon rolls or muffins
- Savory charcuterie board
- Roasted nuts or spiced pecans
- Fresh donuts (especially apple cider ones)
- Pumpkin bread or banana bread
FAQ
Can I make this without sugar?
Yes, you can skip or reduce the brown sugar if your apples are sweet enough.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole?
It’s not recommended. Ground spices will cloud the cider and make straining messy.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days in a sealed jar or pitcher. Reheat before serving.
Can I use orange juice instead of a fresh orange?
Fresh orange slices give better flavor, but a splash of OJ can work in a pinch.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar
- Add fresh ginger slices for a little kick
- Add cranberries for a tart twist
- Spike it with bourbon or rum for an adult version
- Use pear + apple mix for a fall fruit blend
Tools You’ll Need
- Crockpot / Slow Cooker
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Ladle
- Knife and cutting board
- Large spoon
- Pitcher or large jar for storing
Make Ahead Tips
- Make it the night before and store in the fridge
- Reheat in the crockpot or on the stovetop on LOW before serving
- Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays for quick warm-ups later
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Quarter the Apples and Slice the Orange
Rinse 10 apples and 1 white orange. Quarter the apples (no need to peel or core), and slice the orange into rounds, peel on.
Step 2: Add Fruit and Spices to the Crockpot
Place the apples and orange slices into the crockpot. Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon whole cloves, 1 tablespoon whole allspice, and 1 star anise.
Step 3: Add Brown Sugar and Water
Sprinkle in 1/2 cup brown sugar over the fruit and spices. Then pour in 8 cups of water to cover.
Step 4: Cook in Crockpot
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours until apples are very soft.
Step 5: Mash the Fruit
Use a large spoon or potato masher to gently mash the softened fruit to release more flavor.
Step 6: Strain
Carefully pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher. Discard the solids.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Ladle cider into mugs. Garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick if you like. Serve warm.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store in a sealed jar or pitcher in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave
- Freeze in portions and thaw as needed
- Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen
Come Back and Tell Me
If you make this, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Drop a comment and let me know if you made any fun tweaks — or ask any questions you have. Cozy sips await!
