There’s nothing like the smell of warm apple cider filling your kitchen on a crisp fall day. This Crock Pot Apple Cider is made easy with my homemade apple cider mix, giving you that perfect balance of sweetness and spice without any fuss. It’s ideal for sipping during a chilly morning, serving at a casual get-together, or keeping warm while decorating the house for the season. For a fresh, from-the-orchard version, check out my homemade apple cider made with fresh apples for an extra seasonal twist.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apple juice: This forms the base of the cider and gives it a naturally sweet flavor. Choose 100% pure apple juice (not from concentrate, if possible) for the best taste. You can also use a mix of apple juice and apple cider if you like a slightly more tart flavor.
- Homemade Apple Cider Mix: This cozy blend of spices and sugar makes it quick and easy to create that classic cider flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in the morning and keep it warm in the crock pot on the “keep warm” setting for several hours.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold the extra liquid. Cooking time remains about the same, though it may take a little longer to fully heat through.
Can I add extra spices?
Definitely! Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, or a slice of fresh ginger can be added while cooking for extra warmth and aroma.
Can I turn this into an alcoholic drink?
Yes! This cider makes a delicious base for a warm cocktail. Add a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy to your mug, stir, and enjoy responsibly. You can also infuse it with extra spices like cinnamon or cloves to complement the alcohol. If this sounds like your kind of drink, you will love my Spiked Apple Cider! Cheers!
Serving Ideas
- Ladle into mugs and top with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
- Pair with pumpkin cream cheese swirl muffins or a slice of pumpkin chocolate bread (so good!) for an easy seasonal snack.
- Use as a warm base for mulled cider by adding a few cloves, star anise, or orange slices.
How to Store Crock Pot Apple Cider
Let any leftover cider cool to room temperature, then pour it into a jar or airtight container.
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Leave an inch of space at the top of your container to allow for expansion.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot, or return it to the crock pot on Low until heated through.
Crock Pot Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 3 quarts (12 cups) apple juice
- ¾ cup homemade apple cider mix*
Optional Garnish
- cinnamon sticks
- apple slices
Instructions
- Pour apple juice into the bowl of a crock pot or slow cooker.
- Add the apple cider mix and stir until fully combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, or until the cider is hot and the mix has completely dissolved.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with a cinnamon stick or thin apple slices.
Notes
Did you make this recipe?
Thank you for making my recipe! You took pictures, right? Well go ahead and post them on Instagram! Be sure to mention me @iambaker and use the hashtag #YouAreBaker.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This is sweet, comforting, and not too spicy. I loved it.
Elizabeth
I should have this going all Fall! It makes the house smell great, and it tastes amazing!
Stephanie
So simple and delicious. I will be having this on hand for Thanksgiving.
Bella
This is everything you want (or at least I want) on a chilly day. It's warm, spiced, and perfectly balanced.
