Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Cranberry Apple Cider Recipe

It requires only about 5 minutes of prep, then you set it and forget it.
The flavor combo of apple + cranberry + orange offers a fresh twist on classic apple cider.
Whole spices infuse the liquid with deep, holiday‑worthy warmth.
You can easily make ahead and keep it warm in the slow cooker, so it’s ideal for parties.
Versatile—adjust sweetness, swap sweeteners, even spike it for adults if you like.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pure unsweetened apple juice
Pure unsweetened orange juice
Unsweetened cranberry juice
Granulated sugar (or stevia/honey or other sweetener)
Whole cinnamon sticks
Ground cloves

Directions

Add all of the ingredients into a 4‑quart or larger slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on the Low setting for at least 3‑4 hours (or until hot).
Once heated through, keep the drink on the Warm or Low setting to serve anytime.
Serve in mugs, optionally garnished with apple slices, orange slices, or fresh cranberries for a festive touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: approx. 3 hours
Total time: approx. 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add fresh ginger slices or a pinch of allspice.
Adult version: Just before serving, stir in a splash of rum, bourbon or whiskey.
Lighter version: Use less sugar or a sugar‑free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Fruit garnish: Float apple slices, orange wheels or fresh cranberries on top for extra visual appeal.
Make stovetop: If you don’t have a slow cooker, combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring to a simmer, then cover and warm for ~30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover cider can be refrigerated for up to one week. When you’re ready to serve, either reheat on the stove over low heat until hot or microwave individual servings in microwave‑safe mugs.

FAQs

1. Can I use cranberry juice cocktail instead of unsweetened cranberry juice?

Yes — you can. The unsweetened version gives you full control of added sugar, but if you use a sweetened or cocktail version, simply reduce or omit the extra sugar in the recipe.

2. Can this be made on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Use a large pot, combine ingredients, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover and warm for about 30 minutes. The slow cooker gives more time for spice infusion, but stovetop works well.

3. What kind of sweetener should I use?

You can use granulated sugar, honey, or a non‑caloric sweetener like stevia. Taste as you go and adjust sweetness according to your preference.

4. Can I add other spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment. Whole spices like allspice, star anise or fresh ginger work beautifully. If using ground spices, be cautious of clumping and consider straining before serving.

5. How do I keep the cider warm at a party?

After the cooking time, leave it on the “Warm” or “Low” setting in the slow cooker so guests can serve themselves throughout the event.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes — you can prepare it and leave it in the slow cooker on warm until it’s time to serve. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings when you want a ready beverage.

7. How do I reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers for up to a week. For reheating: on stove, warm gently over low heat until hot; or microwave single servings in mugs.

8. Can I substitute apple cider for apple juice?

Yes, you can use apple cider if you prefer a richer flavor. If you do, you may want to reduce the added sugar slightly since cider is often sweeter than juice.

9. Is it okay to use ground spices instead of whole cinnamon sticks?

Yes, but whole spices infuse more cleanly and reduce the risk of grainy texture. If using ground, make sure they dissolve fully and consider straining.

10. Can I make this vegan/friendly for special diets?

Yes. The recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant‑based sweetener or sugar. It’s also free of dairy and easily adaptable to gluten‑free.

Conclusion

This slow cooker cranberry apple cider is a beautifully simple and flavorful drink that brings warm holiday vibes with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a cozy beverage at home, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the season.