How To Make Apple Cider In A Crock Pot

How to Make Apple Cider in a Crock Pot

Are you ready to welcome the cozy fall season with a delicious mug of homemade apple cider? Look no further than your trusty crock pot! Making apple cider from scratch has never been easier, and with the slow-cooking magic of a crock pot, you can enjoy the comforting aroma of spiced apples filling your home while the cider simmers to perfection. Follow our simple step-by-step guide below to create a batch of warm and flavorful apple cider that will impress your family and friends.

What You’ll Need:

• 10-12 apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon allspice berries
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 8 cups water

Instructions:

1. Start by washing the apples and orange thoroughly. Cut them into quarters, removing any seeds, but leaving the skins intact. This will add a lovely natural color and flavor to your apple cider.
2. Place the apple and orange pieces in your crock pot. Add the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, and brown sugar. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Pour the water over the apple mixture in the crock pot. The water should fully cover the apples and oranges, but leave a bit of space at the top to prevent any overflow during cooking.
4. Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Let the mixture simmer for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the apples to soften and release their juices.
5. Once the cooking time is up, use a potato masher or spoon to mash the softened apples and oranges. This will help extract even more flavor from the fruit.
6. Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Carefully pour the contents of the crock pot into the strainer, allowing the liquid to strain through while catching any solids.
7. Gently press down on the solids in the strainer to extract as much liquid as possible. This will result in a smooth and rich apple cider.
8. Discard the solids and pour the strained apple cider into airtight containers. Allow it to cool before refrigerating.
9. When you’re ready to enjoy a cup of homemade apple cider, simply heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Serve it as is or garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange for an extra special touch.

There you have it! Making apple cider in a crock pot is a delightful and fuss-free experience. With fresh ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a batch of apple cider that will warm your soul on chilly autumn days. So, grab your crock pot and get ready to sip on the delicious flavors of fall.

Do you have any favorite variations or additional ingredients you like to add to your apple cider? Share your tips and tricks with us in the comments below!