Apple cider has a way of making us feel all warm and cozy during crisp autumn days because of its fall flavors. And this easy crock pot non-alcoholic apple cider recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hassle-free, budget-friendly beverage that everyone can enjoy.
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Non Alcoholic Apple Cider Recipe in a Crockpot or Slow Cooker
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious homemade apple cider recipe.
⬇️Want the printable recipe card? You'll find it at the bottom of this post!⬇️
Ingredients You Need
- 10 apples (a variety of apples is best)
- 1 large orange
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 cups water
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves OR whole cloves
How to Make It
Here's how to make this simple recipe for a delicious non-alcoholic drink the entire family will enjoy.
Start by washing and quartering your apples. If you prefer, you can make apple slices instead. And remember to store your apples properly to last through the winter if you can.
And if you like, quarter an orange as well; remember that leaving the peel on the orange slices can make the cider a bit bitter, so maybe peel a few.
After that, it's just a matter of layering. Here's how:
1. Pour your water into the crockpot.
2. Add the apple quarters.
3. Layer on the orange slices.
4. Stir in sugar, whole spices, cinnamon sticks, and ground cloves.
5. Let the mix cook on low heat for about 6-8 hours, giving it a good stir now and then.
If you're in a hurry, cook it on high for 3-4 hours. Or let it simmer in a large pot on your wood stove. Just make sure to keep the temperature low. I move mine to the back of the stove if the top gets too hot.
After cooking, smash the apples as much as possible using a potato masher or wooden spoon. Strain the liquid into a bowl, pressing down on the pulp to extract all the juices. Your cider is now ready to serve and enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
You know what's great about making fresh apple cider in a crockpot or slow cooker?
The scent of the aromatic spices alone can transform your home into a cozy haven this time of year, whether you're living in an apartment or out in the middle of nowhere. It's a delicious cold-weather drink that pairs well with a savory or sweet snack, like these Swedish Cardamom Buns.
Not only that, but this recipe is easy to follow. It leaves you free to go about your day while this delicious drink simmers away.
Here are a few more reasons to try this delicious sweet cider.
Budget-friendly: This recipe for fresh cider calls for just a few simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen, such as ground spices and fresh apples.
Making apple cider at home is a great way to use up extra apples during apple picking season. Or try making apple butter in your slow cooker as another fun way to use large amounts of apples
And if you don't have them on hand, you'll find them quickly at the grocery store, especially during the harvest season.
Time-saver: Just set it and forget it. Let the crockpot do the work.
Nutrient-rich: Apples are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Even better, you control the sugar content by making your own apple cider.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether for special occasions like Thanksgiving, Halloween, or just a random get-together during the holiday season, this non alcoholic apple cider recipe will be a hit with your friends and the whole family. (And by the way, the instructions are for the non-alcoholic version of this delicious recipe.
Leftover friendly: Don't waste that leftover apple pulp. It makes excellent compost or can be used in smoothies.
Great memories: My parents' property in southern Ontario backs onto an apple orchard.
I was a teenager when they bought that home, and I only lived there for a few years. However, I returned often with my sons when they were small, and we picked apples each September. That's when I started making homemade applesauce, apple cider, and even apple coffee cake.
What to Serve With Apple Cider
You can serve this nonalcoholic drink hot or cold.
For hot spiced apple cider, serve it straight from the slow cooker or pot. Just let the hot cider cool before you drink it!
This apple cider pairs well with
- Freshly baked apple pie
- Apple cider shortbread cookies
- Sweet potato muffins
- Pumpkin bundt cake
- Cheese platter
- Light sandwiches or crackers
- Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins or scones
It's definitely a hit with all ages.
Substitutions and Additions
This non alcoholic apple cider recipe is easily adjusted to suit your personal preference.
For example, swap in brown sugar or maple syrup for the white sugar. Float a few whole cloves in the apple cider for a spicier taste. (Then, use a fine-mesh strainer or cheese cloth to strain out the cloves before serving.)
Add a ¼ cup of cranberry juice and ½ cup of ginger ale (or ginger beer) for a fun apple cider punch or sparkling apple cider.
Add extra spices for a more flavorful cold drink.
So, there you have it: an easy, budget-friendly, and delicious non-alcoholic apple cider recipe that you can make right in your crockpot. With minimal effort, you get a homemade cider that's tasty, nutrient-rich, and perfect for any occasion.
Homemade Apple Cider Recipe FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about homemade apple cider.
What can I do with the leftover apple pulp from the fresh fruit?
Don't toss that apple pulp! Add it to your compost heap or even incorporate it into smoothies for an extra fiber kick.
Can I make this recipe even more frugal?
Absolutely. Feel free to use whatever apples are on sale or in season. You can also adjust the sugar according to your taste, which could save a bit more.
What are the storage options for this cider?
You can keep the cider in the fridge for about a week.
The freezer works for about three months if you're looking for longer storage. For the longest shelf life, you can even can or preserve fresh apple cider. Just process it in a hot water bath for long-term storage, up to 12-18 months.
Recipe
Easy Homemade Non Alcoholic Apple Cider Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 apples a variety is best
- 1 large orange
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 cups water
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Quarter the orange, you can leave the peel on but it will create a more bitter cider. I leave a few slices unpeeled so that I get extra orange oil but not too much bitterness.
- Wash and quarter apples.
- Pour water into the crockpot and add apples.
- Top with orange slices.
- Stir well and cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. ( You can also cook on high for 3-4 hours)
- Use a potato masher or wooden spoon to smash the apple in the crockpot as much as you can.
- Ladle out ingredients and pour through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or large measuring cup.
- Press the apple pulp into the strainer to squeeze out as much juice as possible.
- Discard the leftover apple pulp.
- If you are serving it for a party you can return the strained juice to the crockpot on warm to keep it fresh and add a few fresh apple slices to float and make it pretty.
- Serve with a fresh slice of apple and enjoy.
Nutrition
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