Nothing says fall like the smell of apples and cinnamon floating through the house. As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, you might be ready to switch from summer cocktails and patio drinks to something a little more cozy. Enter: Spiked Apple Cider.
First step: you need to get yourself some apple cider. I live in the country, and during the fall months there are pumpkin and apple stands on nearly every corner, who often also sell farm-fresh apple cider. If you don’t happen to live in farm country, don’t sweat it. Most major grocery stores and lots of smaller chains will carry apple cider during the fall. (Hint: you can often find it in the produce aisle!)
While you can always heat it up on the stove or in the microwave, I LOVE to put it in the crockpot and let it simmer for the day. I throw in a cinnamon stick and a few slices of apple, pop it on low, and let it heat up gradually. Not only will the flavours be nice and rich when you get to it, but the house will smell incredible.
Now for the fun part – the boozy bit! I am a big fan of Amber Rum – it’s slightly sweeter and smoother than white rum. Add an ounce to the bottom of your mug, to with a ladle-full of your all-day-simmered cider….mmmmm… If you are looking for an even bigger kick, try adding Spiced Rum instead of Amber. Guaranteed to get you going!
This is one of my favourite drinks to serve for an occasion like Thanksgiving, when I know there is going to be a crowd. It’s also a great hands-off approach to serving so you can deal with the rest of dinner. Just remember to put out everything your guests will need – the mugs, ladles, and even a cinnamon stick for garnish. It’s also important that you not put the rum into the apple cider directly so that your non-drinkers an under-agers can still enjoy a steamy mug, sans-alcohol.
Slow Cooker Spiked Apple Cider
1 liter apple cider
1-2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 apple, sliced
Spiced or amber rum to taste
In a slow cooker, place sliced apples and cinnamon sticks. Pour apple cider into slow cooker. Turn to low. Simmer 2-6 hours. In a mug, pour 1 ounce rum of choice. Top with warm apple cider. Enjoy!
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