Crock Pot Mulled Cider: 5 Warm Spiced Apple Drinks to Savor

December 28, 2025

Crock Pot Mulled Cider has been a cherished tradition in my home, especially during the cool autumn months and winter holidays. The aroma of the spiced apple drink bubbling away in the slow cooker creates a cozy atmosphere that brings friends and family together. As I stir the warm mixture, I can almost hear laughter and feel the warmth of good company. This warm spiced apple cider recipe is not only easy to make but fills your home with delightful scents of cinnamon and orange. It’s a perfect drink for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Rich, aromatic flavors that evoke comfort and nostalgia.
Simple preparation with minimal hands-on time.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Healthy alternative to sugary drinks, filled with natural spices.
Budget-friendly and serves a crowd, making entertaining easy.
Can be customized for different tastes with various spices and fruits.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Here’s everything you need for this festive beverage:

64 ounces apple cider (or unfiltered apple juice) – the base for our delicious drink.
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional) – adds sweetness; adjust to your taste preference.
4 cinnamon sticks – infuses warm, spiced flavor.
2 whole star anise – adds a hint of licorice for depth.
2 whole cloves – gives an aromatic kick.
1 orange (sliced) – balances sweetness with a citrus note.

Delicious Crock Pot Mulled Cider simmering with orange slices and cinnamon sticks, ready to savor

How to Make Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Step 1: Gather all ingredients—apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and sliced orange to ensure everything is ready for the cooking process.
Step 2: Place all ingredients into a 3-quart slow cooker (Crock Pot) and stir gently to combine the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Set the slow cooker to the low setting and allow the mixture to warm for 2 hours, letting the spices infuse the cider thoroughly.
Step 4: Before serving, remove all the whole spices and discard them to avoid overly strong flavors or choking hazards.
Step 5: Ladle the mulled cider into mugs. Optionally, garnish each mug with a fresh orange slice for added aroma and presentation.
Step 6: For stove method, place all ingredients in a stock pot over medium heat, warm for about 30 minutes, remove spices, and serve warm as above.

Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Mulled Cider

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by using more or less brown sugar based on your preference.
Let the cider simmer longer for a deeper flavor; you can even leave it on low for up to 4 hours.

Warm Crock Pot Mulled Cider in a festive mug, garnished with an orange slice and cinnamon stick

What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Mulled Cider?

The secret lies in using high-quality apple cider and allowing the spices to steep long enough, creating a rich and aromatic beverage. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavors beautifully.

Can I make Crock Pot Mulled Cider ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Mulled Cider?

Avoid using an overly sweet cider, as it may require less added sugar. Also, be careful not to overcook it, which can make the flavors too intense.

Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Serve your Crock Pot Mulled Cider in festive mugs. It pairs beautifully with ginger cookies or pumpkin bread, making it the perfect drink for holiday gatherings. For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon for a spiked version. This slow cooker spiced cider is sure to impress your guests.

Nutrition Facts for Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Per serving (recipe makes 8 servings):

Calories: 150
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 10mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Once cooled, store any leftover Crock Pot Mulled Cider in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, pour into a pot and warm over medium heat until steaming or reheat in the microwave until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Mulled Cider

Can I add different fruits to Crock Pot Mulled Cider?

Absolutely! You can experiment with apples, pears, or even cranberries for added flavor and color.

What is the best way to serve Crock Pot Mulled Cider at a party?

Keep it warm in the slow cooker and set up a toppings bar with options like whipped cream, extra spices, or a splash of alcohol for guests to customize their drinks.

How long can I leave Crock Pot Mulled Cider on?

You can keep it on low for several hours, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If it sits too long, the flavors can become too strong and overly spiced.

Variations of Crock Pot Mulled Cider You Can Try

Consider adding different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. You could also use apple juice instead of cider for a lighter version. Try adding a splash of cranberry juice for a refreshing change in flavor!