Crockpot Cranberry Apple Cider
This Crockpot Cranberry Apple Cider combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the comforting sweetness of apple cider, creating a perfect balance that appeals to both children and adults. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the spices to fully infuse the liquid while you attend to other holiday preparations.
Equipment
- Crockpot or Slow Cooker
- Fine-Mesh Strainer
Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider or unfiltered apple juice
- 2 cups fresh cranberries frozen can be used without thawing
- 1 large orange sliced into rounds
- 3 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp whole cloves or ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 5-6 star anise pods
- 2 inch fresh ginger sliced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey adjust to taste
Optional Garnishes
- cinnamon sticks
- fresh cranberries
- orange slices
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and discard any soft or discolored berries. Wash the orange well before slicing, especially if using conventional produce.
- Pour the apple cider into your crockpot, then add the cranberries and orange slices.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and ginger slices. Pour in the maple syrup or honey.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- After cooking, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove all the solid ingredients. Return the strained cider to the crockpot and switch to the "keep warm" setting for serving.
Notes
For a less tart version, reduce cranberries to 1 cup.
Apple juice can replace apple cider, but the flavor will be slightly less complex.
Brown sugar can substitute for maple syrup (use ¼ cup).
For a sugar-free version, use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia to taste.
This cider will keep refrigerated for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
For adult gatherings, provide optional spirits on the side like bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy.
Apple juice can replace apple cider, but the flavor will be slightly less complex.
Brown sugar can substitute for maple syrup (use ¼ cup).
For a sugar-free version, use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia to taste.
This cider will keep refrigerated for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
For adult gatherings, provide optional spirits on the side like bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 30gSodium: 15mgFiber: 1gSugar: 26gVitamin C: 45mg
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