This warm and fragrant apple cider recipe is the ultimate cozy drink for fall and winter. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and fills your home with the comforting scent of cinnamon, cloves, and apples. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a chilly afternoon get-together, or just want something delicious to sip on, this homemade apple cider is the perfect choice. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a rich, spiced cider with just the right balance of sweetness and warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients
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Perfect for entertaining or relaxing evenings
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Infused with whole spices for deep, aromatic flavor
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Customizable to suit your sweetness or spice preferences
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Can be kept warm for hours in a slow cooker
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Kid-friendly and can easily be made into a spiked version for adults
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A great way to make your house smell amazing
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Budget-friendly compared to store-bought versions
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Easily doubled for a crowd
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Can be made in advance and reheated
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 bottle (64 fluid ounces) of apple cider: Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for best results. Avoid apple juice, which is more processed and lacks the depth of flavor.
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3 cinnamon sticks: These add a warm, sweet spice that complements the apples perfectly.
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1 teaspoon whole allspice: Adds a mild peppery and clove-like aroma to the cider.
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1 teaspoon whole cloves: Intensely aromatic and slightly sweet, cloves add depth and warmth.
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⅓ cup brown sugar: Sweetens the cider and enhances its caramel notes. Use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference.
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Cheesecloth (for spices): Used to make a spice sachet so the spices can infuse without floating freely in the cider.
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Kitchen twine or string: To tie the spice sachet closed.
Directions
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Pour the apple cider into your slow cooker.
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Add the cinnamon sticks directly into the cider.
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Take a small square of cheesecloth (about 8 inches square) and place the whole allspice and whole cloves in the center.
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Gather the edges of the cheesecloth together and tie securely with kitchen twine to make a spice pouch.
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Place the spice pouch into the slow cooker with the cider.
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Stir in the brown sugar until combined.
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Cover the slow cooker and set to High. Let it cook until the cider is steaming and the sugar is fully dissolved, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Once hot, switch the slow cooker to Low or Warm to keep the cider hot for serving.
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Remove the spice pouch before serving.
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Ladle into mugs and serve warm. You can garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slices, or a splash of spiced rum if desired.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 8
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
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Add citrus: Add a few slices of orange or lemon to the slow cooker for a citrus twist.
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Use mulling spices: Replace the individual spices with 1 tablespoon of pre-mixed mulling spices.
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Add fresh ginger: A few slices of fresh ginger root can add an extra warming kick.
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Spiked cider: Add 1 to 2 ounces of spiced rum or bourbon to each mug for an adult version.
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Less sweet: Reduce or omit the brown sugar if your apple cider is already very sweet.
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More spice: Add a star anise or a few extra cloves for bolder spice flavor.
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Stovetop version: If you don’t have a slow cooker, combine everything in a large pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 30–45 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Allow leftover cider to cool completely. Store it in a sealed container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat until warm. Stir occasionally to recombine flavors. You can also reheat individual mugs in the microwave.
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Freezing: Apple cider can be frozen, but it may slightly change in texture. Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion.
FAQs
How is apple cider different from apple juice?
Apple cider is less filtered, more cloudy, and has a richer, fresher apple flavor. Apple juice is usually pasteurized, filtered, and sweeter.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
You can use ground spices, but do so sparingly—about 1/8 teaspoon each of ground allspice and cloves. Be cautious, as ground spices can make the cider gritty if not strained.
What can I use instead of cheesecloth?
A tea infuser, spice bag, or even a clean coffee filter tied with string can work as a substitute for cheesecloth.
Can I keep the cider warm all day?
Yes, after the cider is hot, keep your slow cooker on the “Warm” setting so guests can serve themselves throughout the day.
Is this cider sweet?
It has a mild sweetness from the apple cider and brown sugar. You can adjust the sugar to your taste or omit it if your cider is already sweet.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it the day before, refrigerate it, and reheat it gently before serving. The flavors may even intensify overnight.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just double all ingredients and make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the extra liquid.
Can I make this in a pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes. Simmer the ingredients in a covered pot over medium-low heat for 30–45 minutes, then reduce to low to keep warm.
Is it safe for kids?
Yes. The base recipe is nonalcoholic and perfectly safe for kids. Be sure to keep any spiked versions separate if serving adults.
What are good garnishes for apple cider?
Cinnamon sticks, thin apple slices, orange wedges, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg can make each mug look and taste extra special.
Conclusion
This easy apple cider is a heartwarming drink that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cup of something cozy, this recipe delivers. The natural apple flavor combined with whole spices creates a homemade cider that tastes better than store-bought. Make it ahead, keep it warm, and let the comforting aroma fill your space all season long.
