10applesI used a mix of gala, honey crisp and Granny Smith
1orangesliced and peel removed
½tablespoonwhole cloves
1whole nutmeg
½teaspoonpimento seeds/whole all spice
3cinnamon sticks
10cupsof filtered water
½cupmaple syrup or Agave Nectar
Instructions
Roughly chop the apples, and cut the orange (peel removed) into quarters. Add to your slow cooker along with all the spices and the filtered water. Stir to combine and turn your slow cooker on for 7-8 hours on low heat or 4 hours on high heat.
One hour before your spiced apple cider is ready, using a potato masher, mash all of the fruits. They should be very soft and easy to mash. Mash until all the fruits are mashed. Add the maple syrup at this point. If you like it barely sweet, you can add the ½ cup. If you like it on the sweeter side, but not overly sweet, you can add ¾ cup. You can always add more later after it's finished and you've tasted it, so you can start with less.
Allow the cider to cook for the last hour, and then strain. We like to double strain it (strain once, then repeat the process) using a fine meshed sieve, and you can also use a cheesecloth for added precision.
Serve warm and enjoy! You can freeze this recipe for several months to enjoy all winter long.
Notes
To store: Refrigerate any leftover hot spiced apple cider in a covered bottle or airtight container for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.To freeze: Transfer the cooled apple cider to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat it according to the instructions above.