Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups high-quality unfiltered apple cider (or pure apple juice)
- 2 large oranges, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 4 whole cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 3 star anise pods
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- For the Boozy Version: 1 cup Bourbon, Dark Rum, or Brandy
- Garnish: Additional cinnamon sticks and orange slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation. Start by rinsing your oranges and cranberries under cool water. Slice the oranges into thick rounds, keeping the peel on for the essential oils and aroma. If you are using fresh ginger, peel it slightly and slice it into thin coins. Gather your cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise so they are ready to go. If you are using a slow cooker, place all these fruits and spices directly into the pot. If using the stovetop, choose a large heavy-bottomed stockpot.
- Step 2: Simmering the Flavors. Pour the apple cider over the fruit and spices. Stir in the brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink. Set your slow cooker to “Low” for 3 to 4 hours or “High” for 2 hours. If using the stovetop, bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it gently cook for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse. Avoid a rolling boil, as this can make the cider cloudy and slightly bitter from the orange pith.
- Step 3: Serving and Customizing. Once the cider is fragrant and hot, use a ladle to pour it into mugs. Ensure each mug gets a few cranberries and an orange slice for a beautiful presentation. For a non-alcoholic version, serve as is. To make it boozy, add 1.5 ounces of bourbon, rum, or brandy to individual mugs before filling them with the hot cider. This keeps the alcohol from burning off and allows guests to choose their own strength. Top with a fresh cinnamon stick and serve immediately.
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes