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Cozy Slow Cooker Mulled Apple Cider with Orange and Cinnamon

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This cozy slow cooker mulled apple cider with orange and cinnamon is an effortless, crowd-pleasing drink that fills your home with holiday aromas. Made with simple, real ingredients, it’s naturally sweetened and perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups (64 oz) apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 large orange, thinly sliced
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh orange slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Extra cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh cranberries (for garnish, optional)
  • Star anise pods (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the orange thoroughly and slice it into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Optionally, stud the cloves into the orange slices for easy removal.
  2. Pour the apple cider into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise (if using), and vanilla bean or extract. Do not stir vigorously.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
  4. After about 3 hours on low, taste the cider. If desired, stir in maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, or add another cinnamon stick for more spice.
  5. Optional: For a clear cider, pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pot or serving vessel.
  6. Switch the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting to keep the cider at the perfect drinking temperature for hours.
  7. Ladle the warm cider into mugs. Garnish with fresh orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries if desired.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Whole spices are essential to avoid cloudiness. The cider can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days; flavors deepen over time. For a spiked version, add 1/2 cup dark rum, bourbon, or brandy during the last 30 minutes of cooking. To make on the stovetop, simmer all ingredients in a large pot over low heat for at least 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mulled apple cider, slow cooker cider, holiday drink, apple cider, cinnamon, orange, warm beverage, easy entertaining

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/cozy-slow-cooker-mulled-apple-cider-with-orange-and-cinnamon/