Red Hots Apple Cider

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the way the warm aroma of cinnamon, apples, and citrus drifts through the house on a chilly day.

Growing up, the holiday season wasn’t quite complete until the sweet, spicy fragrance of mom’s red hot apple cider filled the air. Sometimes she’d make it in her old electric percolator, and other times it simmered away in the slow cooker, but either way, it was always the heart of every holiday gathering.

Now, I’ve carried that tradition into my own home. There’s a certain comfort in ladling out a steaming mug of this bold, ruby-red cider, complete with a swirling cinnamon stick. It’s more than just a drink — it’s a sip of nostalgia, warming you from the inside out. Perfect for Christmas morning, cozy fall evenings, or any time the weather calls for something sweet and spicy.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: This is an easy recipe, perfect for those who want big flavor with minimal effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Sweet apple cider meets the fiery warmth of red hots candies, bringing back memories of childhood holiday parties.
• Perfect for Holiday Parties: It’s a centerpiece drink that fills your home with the unmistakable scent of the holiday season.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can keep it warm on low heat throughout your party, letting guests serve themselves.

---

The Story Behind the Dish

Apple cider has been a seasonal staple for centuries, with different regions of the world adding their own spin. This version takes a playful Texan twist by using red hot candies (sometimes known as cinnamon imperials) to bring in that signature kick of warmth and vibrant red color.

It’s a staple at Christmas season gatherings, holiday parties, and any cold-weather get-together. The combination of slow-simmered apple cider, cinnamon candies, and fresh citrus transforms a simple drink into something extraordinary. For many families, this is a cherished tradition — a hot drink that warms both heart and home.

Equipment List

• 6-Quart Slow Cooker: Essential for hands-off cooking, infusing the cider with flavor over low heat.
• Large Pot (Optional): For those who prefer to make it on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker.
• Ladle: Used for serving, ensuring every cup has that rich, red color and a touch of fruit.
• Cups or Glass Mugs: For serving, ideally large mugs that keep the cider warm for longer.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe

• Apple Cider: The base of this great recipe. Use fresh cider for the best flavor.
• Red Hots Candies: These cinnamon candies bring the heat, flavor, and that signature red color.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Orange Juice: Brightens up the cider with a hint of citrus.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Whole sticks offer a slow release of flavor as they simmer, adding to the festive aroma.
• Orange Slice: Added near the end to give the cider a fresh citrus finish.

---

How to Make Slow Cooker Cinnamon Red Hots Apple Cider

Prepare the Ingredients

• Measure out the apple cider, lemon juice, orange juice, red hots candies, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

• Pour the apple cider, lemon juice, orange juice, red hots candies, and cinnamon sticks into a 6-quart slow cooker.
• Do not add the orange slices yet.

Cook the Cider

• Set the slow cooker to high heat.
• Let the cider cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the red hots candies fully melt and blend into the cider.

Add the Orange Slices

• With 30 minutes left on the cook time, add the orange slices to the slow cooker.
• Let the flavors meld for the final half-hour.

Serve the Cider

• Use a ladle to pour the cider into large mugs or cups.
• For a festive touch, add a fresh cinnamon stick to each mug. Enjoy your warm, spiced cider on cold days or during holiday parties!

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Visit my Amazon Store for everything you need to cook up a storm, bake delicious treats, and whip up your favorite beverages!

Chef Secrets & Tips

• Make It on the Stovetop: No slow cooker? No problem. Just simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 90 minutes.
• Control the Spice: Love it spicy? Add extra red hots candies for more kick. Want it milder? Use fewer red hots or simmer it for less time.
• Keep It Warm: Hosting a party? Once it’s done, set the slow cooker to low heat to keep it warm all evening.
• Fresh Citrus Flavor: Adding the orange slice toward the end keeps the citrus flavor fresh and vibrant.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair this slow cooker cider with other cozy holiday favorites. Serve it with:

• Homemade Cinnamon Rolls – Perfect for Christmas morning!
• Amish Pumpkin Bread – A classic autumnal treat that pairs beautifully with apple cider.
• Spiced Ginger Molasses Cookies – Dunk them right into your mug of cider for a delicious bite.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out other drink recipes from Jennifer’s kitchen that bring warmth and flavor to your holiday gatherings.

---

Commonly Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cider ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cider a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the slow cooker or a large pot on low heat.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cider in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a large pot on the stovetop or in the slow cooker.

3. Can I make it less sweet?
Yes, reduce the amount of red hots candies or use a cider with less added sugar. Fresh-pressed cider is less sweet than commercial versions.

4. Can I make it spicier?
For extra spice, add more cinnamon candies, an extra cinnamon stick, or even a dash of ground cinnamon.

5. Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Try slices of grapefruit or tangerines for a different citrus twist.

---

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cider in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a large pot on the stovetop or return it to the slow cooker and heat on low.
• Keep It Warm: For parties, leave the cider in the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting so guests can serve themselves throughout the evening.

---

There’s no better way to warm up the holiday season than with a slow cooker full of cinnamon red hots apple cider. This cozy, spiced cider is as festive as it gets, with its bold red color, zesty orange slices, and sweet-spicy cinnamon kick.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, sipping by the fire, or gathering around the table on Christmas morning, this is one drink that will bring warmth, comfort, and tradition to every cup. It’s more than just a recipe — it’s a memory in the making.

More Family-Friendly Holiday Drink Recipes

Spiced Tea Mix: A nostalgic blend of instant tea, orange-flavored Tang drink mix, lemonade powder, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. This sweet and tangy drink mix is perfect for gifting or warming up on chilly days. Just add hot water for an instant mug of cozy, citrus-spiced goodness.

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix: Indulge in a rich, chocolatey treat with a cool peppermint twist. This DIY cocoa mix is perfect for holiday movie nights or as a festive gift in a jar. Just add hot milk or water, and top with whipped cream for an extra-special touch.

Coffee Punch: A sweet, creamy blend of rich coffee, ice cream, and whipped topping that’s a party favorite. Perfect for brunches, baby showers, or any festive occasion. Serve it cold in a punch bowl for a crowd-pleasing, caffeinated delight.