Homemade Caramel Apple Cider Recipe (Stovetop & Crockpot Versions)

As I’ve stated basically every post I’ve made about fall – I’m Team Apple. While I’ve found a few pumpkin drinks that wow me (That’s Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam, HOMEMADE PSL’s, and Pumpkin Pie in a cup, for those keeping score), I will always reach for something apple first.

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm mug of apple cider on a crisp fall day. Add a swirl of sweet caramel, and you’ve got the perfect cozy drink to enjoy while curled up with a blanket, hosting a fall gathering, or serving at a holiday party. The best part? You can easily make this caramel apple cider right at home with just a few ingredients—on the stovetop or in your crockpot. It’s so simple and so versatile, there’s no reason not to pour yourself a mug (and admit that apple is the superior fall beverage?).

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cider

• Quick and easy: Takes less than 20 minutes on the stove, literally seconds to mix up and put in the crockpot.
• Perfect for gatherings: Make a big batch in the crockpot and keep it warm for hours.
• Kid friendly & customizable: Sweet enough to please the sugar craving, and you can add toppings and mix in ingredients that give it a fun twist!

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider (fresh pressed if possible – do NOT try to use apple juice)
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3–4 whole cloves (optional)
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Additional cinnamon or caramel drizzle (optional garnish)

Stovetop Instructions

1. In a large pot, pour in the apple cider.
2. Add the caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
3. Warm over medium heat until the caramel melts and everything is well combined (about 10–15 minutes). Do not let it boil—just heat until steaming hot. Stir frequently to keep the caramel from settling on the bottom and burning.
4. Remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving.
5. Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream, and drizzle with extra caramel.

Crockpot Instructions

1. Add the apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to your slow cooker.
2. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 2–3 hours or high for 1–1.5 hours.
3. Once heated, switch to the warm setting to keep it hot for serving throughout the day.
4. Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream, and finish with a caramel drizzle.

Tips & Variations

• Spiked version: Add a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or whiskey for an adults only version.
• Extra spiced: Toss in star anise, nutmeg, or even a slice of fresh orange for added depth. Trust me on the orange, it works!
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free caramel sauce.

Serving Ideas

• Serve this cozy drink at a fall family night with popcorn and board games. It’s a bit of a fun indulgence vs regular apple cider!
• Set up a Caramel Apple Cider Bar with toppings like cinnamon sugar, toffee bits, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle. (Disclaimer, I have not tried this option yet but I’m seeing it all over pinterest and it is SO CUTE so I’m just waiting for the moment I have an event that this would work for!)
• Make it the star drink of your Thanksgiving or holiday party – having a crockpot of this in the kitchen not only is an easy drink to have batched up, it makes your house smell heavenly

Whether you make this one quickly on the stovetop or let it simmer away in the crockpot, it’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite. Caramel is the perfect way to elevate your apple cider this season!

Print Recipe

Caramel Apple Cider Recipe

This homemade caramel apple cider is sweet, cozy, and full of fall flavor. Make it quickly on the stovetop or let it simmer in the crockpot—either way, it’s the perfect warm drink for family nights, parties, or holiday gatherings.

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Course: Drinks

Keyword: apple, caramel apple, cider

Servings: 7

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzle
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 whole cloves optional
• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

Stovetop Instructions

• In a large pot, combine apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
• Warm over medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring until caramel melts. Do not boil.
• Remove spices. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream + caramel drizzle.

Crockpot Instructions

• Add apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to crockpot.
• Cover and cook on low 2–3 hours or high 1–1.5 hours.
• Keep warm for serving. Garnish with whipped cream + caramel drizzle.