Easy Crockpot Apple Cider

Prep Time30

Cook Time8

Total Time8 30

Servings: Servings

Place the cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, whole cloves, and optional ginger in a piece of cheesecloth. Tie the bundle closed with kitchen twine.
3 to 4 cinnamon sticks, 1 whole nutmeg, 1 tablespoon whole cloves, ½ inch fresh ginger
Place the apples and orange sections in a 7-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the spice bundle and pour in the water.
10 to 12 apples, 2 navel oranges, 1 gallon water
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Carefully mash the softened fruit with a potato masher or sturdy wooden spoon. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Pour the cider through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-safe container. Strain again if desired. Discard the fruit solids and spices.
Stir in brown sugar a little at a time, if using, and taste between additions. Serve warm.
Brown sugar

Stovetop method: Combine the fruit, spice bundle, and water in a large stockpot. Cover, and keep the mixture at a low simmer for 2 to 3 hours, then mash, strain, and sweeten as directed.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more balanced flavor. Use whole spices keep the finished cider clearer than ground spices.
Double strain if you prefer less pulp.
Brown sugar is optional. Only add it if you want to make the cider sweeter.
Freeze the cooled cider in a freezer-safe container with at least 2 inches of room for expansion for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat on the stove. Store the cooled apple cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition Facts

Easy Crockpot Apple Cider

Serving Size

1 cup

Amount per Serving

Calories

% Daily Value*

Fat

0.3

Saturated Fat

0.1

Trans Fat

0.001

Polyunsaturated Fat

0.1

Monounsaturated Fat

0.02

Sodium

Potassium

157

Carbohydrates

Fiber

Sugar

Protein

Vitamin A

107

Vitamin C

Calcium

Iron

0.2

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.