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As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite as soothing as a warm cup of apple cider. This beloved beverage has deep roots in various cultures around the world, symbolizing harvest time and community gatherings. It’s a drink that brings people together, evoking nostalgia and warmth, whether enjoyed around a crackling fire on a chilly evening or served during festive holiday gatherings.

The Best Crockpot Apple Cider

Fall in love with the warmth of homemade slow-cooked apple cider! This heartwarming recipe combines fresh apple juice, aromatic spices, and citrus zest to create a delightful drink perfect for any season. Enjoy the cozy aroma filling your home as flavors meld over hours of slow cooking. Customize it with your favorite spices for a personal touch. Share this comforting beverage with loved ones and make lasting memories! #AppleCider #FallRecipes #SlowCooker #CozyDrinks #HarvestTraditions

Ingredients
  

10 medium-sized apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties such as Fuji and Granny Smith)

1 orange, quartered

1 lemon, quartered

6 whole cloves

4 cinnamon sticks

1 tablespoon allspice berries

½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

10 cups water

Optional: rum or bourbon for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly and cut them into quarters. No need to core or peel, as you want to extract all the flavors.

    Combine Ingredients: In a large crockpot, add the quartered apples, orange, and lemon. Toss in the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, and brown sugar.

      Add Water: Pour in 10 cups of water, ensuring all the fruit and spices are submerged.

        Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Allow it to simmer for at least 6 to 8 hours, or until the apples are completely soft and falling apart.

          Mash and Strain: Once cooked, use a potato masher to mash the apples and spices into a pulpy mixture. After mashing, strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher, pressing down to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.

            Sweeten to Taste: Taste the cider and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more brown sugar.

              Serve: Serve warm in mugs, optionally adding a splash of rum or bourbon for an adult version. Garnish with fresh cinnamon sticks or apple slices for a festive touch!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours | Servings: 10-12 (makes about 2.5 quarts)