I love this time of year. I love the chill in the air before it gets blindingly cold in winter. I love snuggling up under blankets on the weekend and sipping warm beverages while watching a movie. I love all the warm drinks, but my favorite by far is apple cider. It just feels so warm and cozy and it’s easier to drink than hot chocolate in my opinion. It’s also super easy to make, which is really all that matters at this point in the year. Between all my children’s holiday parties, school activities, friends’ gatherings/parties, and just trying to have enough clean clothes at any given time, I am stretched super thin. I know you are too!
This time of year is my favorite, but it comes with so much to do, so I look for easy and simple recipes that make a big statement. This apple cider fits the bill. As always, like all of my favorite recipes, it is easily customizable. I’ve added so many different fruits, syrups, and spirits (woot!) and it always tastes perfect. Give this a try and I know you’ll love it as well!
Crockpot Apple Cider
Yields: Approximately 12 cups
Cook Time: 6 hours
Ingredients:
- 6-7 large apples, seeded and chopped into chunks
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange, chopped
- 2 quarts water (enough to cover the fruit)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or honey
Instructions: Place all items into the crockpot and stir well. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. Remove cinnamon sticks and orange rind. Mash with a potato masher or fork to get out as much juice from the apples and orange as possible. Strain the mixture. Use either an immersion blender or standard blender to get the cider to your preferred consistency. Taste for sweetness and add more sugar/honey or any add-ins if desired.
Optional Add-ins: pears, cranberries, caramel syrup (1/2 cup), whole cloves (5-6), pumpkin pie spice (up to 1 TBSP), vanilla (1-2 tsp.), and spiced rum/vodka. You can also top it with whipped cream.
