Besides the cooler weather and falling leaves, I absolutely love fall flavors in foods. We switch over to apple, pumpkin and cinnamon-y goodness. It seems to be all food groups too! From breakfasts – caramel apple danishes – to savory lunches, dinners and even desserts – like my pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting. But what I have found is that fall drinks are my favorite. I love cozying up with a fall inspired drink during the cooler months. I made this apple margarita slush and I have been obsessed ever since.

What is an apple margarita slush?

This recipe is everything you could want in a fall cocktail: refreshing, flavorful, and visually stunning. It combines the warmth of apple pie spice with the zing of tequila and triple sec, while crushed ice turns the whole mixture into a smooth, slushy treat. The light blue agave sweetener adds just enough smoothness to tie everything together without overpowering the natural apple flavor.

Unlike a traditional margarita, which leans heavily on lime juice, this version uses apple cider as the main mixer. That gives it a subtle sweetness and deep, spiced undertone. Top it with apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a picture-perfect presentation — the kind that looks right at home on your fall entertaining table or social media feed.

Margarita slush ingredients

To make this drink, you will need to get:

• sugar
• apple pie spice
• tequila
• triple sec
• light blue agave
• apple cider
• Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish

• 1/4 cup sugar – helps enhance the natural sweetness of the apples and balances the tequila’s sharpness.
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice – a cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice that brings those unmistakable fall vibes.
• 1 cup tequila – use a quality blanco or reposado tequila for the best flavor.
• 1/2 cup triple sec – adds a bright orange note that complements the apple and spice.
• 2 tablespoons light blue agave syrup – a smooth, natural sweetener that keeps the cocktail from being too sugary.
• 2 cups apple cider – the heart of this recipe! Fresh, unfiltered cider gives the richest flavor.
• 3–4 cups ice – adjust depending on how thick or slushy you want your drink.
• Apple slices and cinnamon sticks – for garnish and extra aroma.

Optional: add a pinch of sea salt or a sugar-cinnamon rim on the glass for a fun twist.

How to make an apple margarita slush

1. Prepare Your Glasses -Start by prepping your serving glasses — margarita or stemless wine glasses work great. For a sweet touch, rim the edges with cinnamon sugar. Just rub a lime wedge (or apple slice) around the rim, then dip it into a mix of sugar + apple pie spice. Set aside while you make the slushy.

2. Blend the Base -In a blender, combine:

• apple cider
• tequila
• triple sec
• agave syrup
• sugar
• apple pie spice

Add the ice and blend on high until the texture is thick and frosty. If it’s too thin, add more ice; if too thick, add a splash more cider or a drizzle of agave.

3. Taste and Adjust – Give your slushy a quick taste test. Like it stronger? Add a bit more tequila or triple sec. Prefer it sweeter? Drizzle in more agave or a touch more sugar. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility — you can tailor it to your preference easily.

4. Pour and Garnish – Pour the frozen margarita mixture into your prepared glasses.
Top each one with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for garnish. The cinnamon adds aroma as you sip, and the apple slice doubles as an edible treat.

Serving Ideas

This Apple Margarita Slushy isn’t just for fall! Its refreshing texture and spiced sweetness make it a hit year-round.

Here are a few fun serving ideas:

• Holiday Cocktails: Serve this as a signature drink at Thanksgiving or Christmas. Pair it with cinnamon-sugar donuts or apple pie.
• Summer BBQs: Swap hot cider for chilled apple juice and make a batch for your backyard party.
• Mocktail Version: Skip the tequila and triple sec, use extra apple cider and a splash of orange juice instead — just as delicious and family-friendly!

If you’re hosting a crowd, you can double (or even triple) the recipe and serve it in a large glass pitcher or punch bowl. Keep extra ice on hand to refresh the slushy texture if it starts to melt.

Apple Margarita Slushy Tips

• Chill everything first. Pop your apple cider, tequila, and triple sec in the fridge before blending. Cold ingredients make a smoother, frostier slush.
• Use real apple cider. Avoid overly filtered or sweetened juice — you want the depth and tartness of authentic cider.
• Blend in bursts. Pulse the blender rather than running it continuously to avoid over-melting the ice.
• Make it spicy. Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of spiced rum if you like a little heat.
• Serve immediately. Like most frozen drinks, this one’s best enjoyed fresh from the blender.

Other Fall Drinks to Try

Love a good fall drink? Me too! Here are some of my other favorites you should try:

• Fall Moscow Mule
• Caramel Apple Sangria
• Caramel Apple Jello Shots
• Instant Pot Apple Cider
• Pumpkin Spice Latte Shots

Apple Margarita Slushy

Yield: 1 drink

Make the ultimate fall drink with this apple margarita slushy!

Print

Ingredients

• ½ tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp apple pie spice + a pinch
• 1 cup of ice
• 2 oz tequila (anejo)
• 1 oz triple sec
• 2 tsp light blue agave
• 6 oz. apple cider
• Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions

1.    On a small plate, combine the sugar and apple pie spice and mix until combined.

2.    Use a little of the apple cider (or tequila) to rim the glass and dip into the sugar mixture. Set aside.

3.    In a blender combine the ice, tequila, triple sec, agave, apple cider, and a pinch more of apple pie spice.

4.    Blend until smooth and pour into rimmed glass.

5.    Add apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish.

Notes

You can use your tequila of choice. Also can swap the agave for another sweetener such as maple syrup. You can swap apple pie spice for cinnamon.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 374Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gSodium: 3mgCarbohydrates: 50gFiber: 4gSugar: 43gProtein: 1g

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There are some flavor combinations that instantly give off cozy vibes. For me, when you mix together apples and cinnamon, I immediately think of fall. The cooler breezes, the crisp mornings, the crinkle of the falling leaves under my feet. This old fashioned apple crisp is one of those desserts that has all the right flavors to bring fall right into your kitchen – any time of year!

What is apple crisp?

There is a wide variety of apple based desserts such as apple pie, apple crisp and apple betty. The difference is apple crisp is made with sliced apples and topped with an oat based crumble before baking it. The apple crisp gets its name from the “crisp” oat topping that forms over the apples. (Apple pie is sliced apples baked in a pie crust and apple betty is baked breadcrumbs on top of apples.)

Old fashioned apple crisp ingredients

Some of the many things that I love about this apple crisp is that the ingredients are easy to find and budget friendly! To make an old fashioned apple crisp at home you will need:

• apples
• sugar
• spices
• cornstarch
• lemon juice
• oats
• flour
• butter
• walnuts

Apples – The best apples for baking are granny Smiths and honey crisps. These apples don’t break down as much during baking so they are still slightly crisp and retain their shape well.

Sugar – Both white and brown sugar are needed for this apple crisp.

Spices – ALLLLL the fall spices are needed for this one! Grab cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and salt for this one.

Cornstarch – This is used in the apple portion and helps bind everything together.

Oats/flour – Feel free to use any type of oats or flour here. These are used for the topping of the apple crisp.

Butter – Cold butter will be used to make the crisp topping. I like to use unsalted butter but use whatever you have on hand.

Walnuts – Nuts in the apple crisp are optional, but I prefer walnuts. You can use walnuts, pecans or even sliced almonds here.

How to make a baked apple crisp

This apple crisp recipe can be broken down into two parts – the apple base and the oat crumble topping. Let’s start with the apples first.

Step 1: Prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl combine the sliced apples, cornstarch, lemon, both sugars and the spices. Mix together until well coated and then transfer to a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the topping. Combine together the oats, flour, sugar, and spices. Cut the butter into cubes and use a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture. It should have the texture of sand when it’s well incorporated. Stir in the nuts, if using.

Step 3: Assemble and bake. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the sliced apples. Place into a 350 degree pre-heated oven for 35-40 minutes.

Step 4: Cool and enjoy. Remove the from oven and allow to cool slightly. Top with vanilla ice cream and a caramel drizzle for the most perfect fall dessert!

Old fashioned apple crisp tips and FAQs

What type of apples do you need for apple crisp? It is best to use a sturdy apple like granny Smiths or honey crisps. They tend to hold their shape better during baking and don’t turn totally mushy. You can always use any apple you like, but those two are best for making this crisp.

Tip: Use a sharp knife to slice the apples 1/2 inch in thickness.

What spices are needed? Typical fall inspired spices are what you need here – cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice! You can even add some apple pie spice, if you’d like!

Tip: Use either a pastry cutter or your finger tips to break up the cold butter into the crisp topping.

What is the difference between apple crisp and apple betty? The main difference is the topping! The topping for apple betty is made from breadcrumbs while apple crisp has an oat based topping.

Other apple desserts to try

Love apple desserts? Same here! Check out these other apple treats to try:

• Caramel apple dip
• Caramel apple bundt cake
• Apple cider scones
• Apple zucchini muffins
• Individual apple crisps

Storage instructions

This apple crisp is best when eaten fresh, but can be easily stored for later. Place a piece of tinfoil over your baking dish and place it in the fridge. Warm up again in the oven to enjoy again. It will stat fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days after making.

Last minutes tips..

What size baking dish do I need? You will need a 9×9 baking dish. Make sure to grease it with butter or cooking spray before adding the apples.

Tip: Any apple corer will help easily remove the core and save some time.

Is this recipe gluten or dairy free? No, this recipe as is contains both gluten and dairy. If you’d like to make it gluten free – sub out the flour and oats for a gluten free option. (Although oats are naturally gluten free, there are varieties that are free from cross contamination of gluten.) To make this recipe dairy free, sub out the regular butter for coconut oil or your favorite dairy-free butter.

Tip: Try the recipe as is and then add your favorite fall spices to make it truly your own.

Old fashioned apple crisp

Yield: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Print

Ingredients

• 6 medium apples; cored, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup walnuts, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a 9x9 baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg and all spice.
3. Evenly distribute the apples onto the bottom of the baking dish.
4. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, sugars, cinnamon and salt.
5. Using a pastry cutter of your fingers, cut in the cold butter.
6. Toss in the walnuts if using.
7. Spread the oat topping over the apples.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Remove and allow to cool.
10. Top with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 409Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 98mgCarbohydrates: 85gFiber: 7gSugar: 58gProtein: 5g

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I love the flavors of fall. I love fall in general but when add the cozy flavors of caramel and apple and pumpkin and chai – it’s just the best. Two of my favorites together are caramel and apple though! Taking a bite of this caramel apple dip just makes me think of falling leaves and roaring fireplaces.

What is caramel apple dip?

This is a cream cheese based dip that is made with homemade caramel sauce, sauteed apples and apple pie spices. It’s deliciousness in dip form! It’s great with apples (of course) but my kids like it smeared on graham crackers too. They also like to eat it right off the spoon but we try and encourage the apples. Everyone will love this caramel apple dip because:

• it’s easy to make
• full of fall flavors
• great to bring to parties

I can guarantee that everyone will love this insanely delicious dessert!

Caramel apple dip ingredients

Another reason this dip is so wonderful is that you only need a handful of ingredients. To make homemade caramel apple dip you will need:

• cream cheese
• brown sugar
• caramel
• heavy cream
• butter
• apples

Cream cheese – You can use any variety of plain cream cheese that you prefer – light, or regular, etc. Just make sure that it is softened before you start to make this dip.

Brown sugar – Instead of plain white sugar, I used brown sugar for this dip. It gives such a great depth of flavor and adds to the overall goodness of this fall inspired dessert.

Caramel – You want a thick, gooey caramel here. I suggest my homemade caramel sauce or even dulce de leche. If you are going to use store bought – I suggest dulce de leche due to it’s sweetness and how thick it is. You can find it in the baking aisle near the sweetened condensed milk.

Heavy cream – This helps keep the dip thick but pliable. It aids in mixing everything together. I found that regular milk is too thin for this dip. You can use half ‘n half if you don’t have heavy cream on hand.

Butter – Salted butter works great in this easy dip recipe. Feel free to use unsalted as well. This is for sauteing the apple to add to the dip.

Apple – Use your favorite apple variety. The apple is sauteed in butter and then folded into the dip. It’s what makes this dip a true caramel apple treat! You will also want some apples for dipping.

How to make caramel apple dip

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you are going to also want to grab mixing bowls, spoons, cutting board, knife and a skillet. You will also need either a handheld mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese.

Step 1: Saute the apple. Place the butter and diced apple in a skillet over medium high heat. Saute, stirring occasionally, until the apple is softened. This should take about 5-10 minutes.

Step 2: Mix. While the apple is softening, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream and caramel in a bowl or stand mixer. Reserve some of the caramel for drizzling on top of the finished dip.

Step 3: Fold in apples. Once the apples are softened, let them cool on the counter or in the fridge. You don’t want them to be hot before adding them to the cream cheese mixture. Fold them in with a silicone spatula into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 4: Serve. Scoop the caramel apple dip into a serving bowl. Drizzle caramel sauce on top and add a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Use sliced apples to eat the dip.

Recipe FAQs and Tips

This dip is simple to make and great for getting the kids involved in the kitchen. Here are some tips and tricks to make this caramel apple dip recipe even easier.

How do I soften cream cheese quickly? If you need to get your cream cheese soft quick, the easiest way to do this is by cutting it into cubes and then placing it in the microwave or a water bath. Microwave it in 15 second intervals so you don’t burn the cream cheese.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can use a large mixing bowl and a handheld mixer to whip the cream cheese. Don’t have either? No problem! You just need to use a fork to whisk together all the ingredients.

Are there apples in the dip? Yes! There are sauteed apples inside this caramel apple dip!

What kind of apples do I need? You can use your favorite apple for this dip! Courtland, Granny Smith, Cosmic crisp. They are all fabulous!

Keep reading for storage instructions and the full recipe.

How to store leftovers

If you have any left dip, place it in an airtight container such as a Tupperware, and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh and good to eat for up to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again. Freezing is not recommended for this dip.

Other caramel apple recipes

I am a firm believer that caramel and apple are one of the greatest flavor combos ever. If you agree, be sure to check out my other caramel apple recipes:

• Caramel apple cake
• Caramel apple sangria – my most popular fall drink recipe!
• Caramel apple danish
• Apple chai latte – no caramel in this one but it’s pretty delicious!

Caramel apple dip

Yield: 12 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Everyone will love this creamy caramel apple dip!

Print

Ingredients

• 1 block of cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 cup caramel or dulce de leche, separated
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 apple, diced
• cinnamon, for topping, optional

Instructions

1. Place the butter and the diced apple in a skillet over medium high heat. Saute for 5-10 minutes or until apples are soft. Allow to cool completely.
2. Mix together the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, caramel sauce and heavy cream in a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the sauteed apples with a spatula once they are cooled.
4. Spoon the dip into a serving dish.
5. Top with a drizzle of reserved caramel sauce and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
6. Serve with sliced apples and graham crackers.
7. Enjoy!

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We love a good seasonal inspired drink in our house. It’s always nice incorporate the flavors from the current season into our routine. This fall Moscow Mule is one of those drinks that once the weather starts to get cooler, becomes a staple in our rotation.

What is a fall Moscow Mule?

A classic Moscow Mule is one that combines vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. It is typically served in a copper mug. There are many different versions of a classic mule, my fall inspired drink being one of them. The fall Moscow mule combines the classic ingredients of vodka, ginger beer and lime juice with apple cider! It’s super refreshing and perfect for any fall day.

Fall inspired Moscow Mule ingredients

To make your own fall Moscow mule you will need the following ingredients:

• Vodka
• Lime juice
• Apple cider
• Ginger beer
• Optional garnishes – lime wedges and apple slices

Vodka – You can use your favorite vodka in this recipe. Any vodka will work!

Lime juice – Juice from a fresh lime works best here. You can then slice the lime and use it for garnish!

Apple cider – Any apple cider will work. I do suggest cider and not apple juice in this recipe. We love using local apple cider whenever possible.

Ginger beer – You can find ginger beer in the beer aisle of most grocery stores. Feel free to use your favorite ginger beer for this mule!

How to make an autumn Moscow Mule

This recipe makes ONE drink, but you can easily double or even make a pitcher to share. After you have gathered all your ingredients you will also need some ice and a copper mug.

Add ice to your mug – Place your ice in your mug. If you want to get fancy, you can use frozen apple cider in place of ice cubes.

Add liquids – Pour in the vodka, apple cider and ginger beer. Squeeze in the lime juice.

Garnish – Add your apple slice and lime wedge to your mug and enjoy!

How to make a pitcher

This recipe is for one mule, but it’s perfect for sharing! If you want to make a pitcher, simply multiple the amounts times 4. This will give you enough drinks to share!

What makes this a fall drink?

This drink combines a traditional Moscow mule drink with apple cider – which gives it it’s fall inspired flavor! The apple cider is a great addition to the vodka, ginger beer and lime of the classic. If you want to take this drink up a notch, freeze apple cider in an ice cube tray before making it. Then use the frozen apple cider cubes in place of regular ice!

What kind of vodka do I need?

You can use any type of vodka that you’d like! We like using Grey Goose, but any vodka will work. Grab your favorite vodka from the grocery store and whip up this fall Moscow mule recipe today!

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

For this recipe, I do not suggest using apple juice in place of apple cider. The apple cider gives this drink a great depth of flavor and isn’t as watered down as traditional apple juice. In a pinch, apple juice will work, but for the best quality drink – cider is recommended.

Other fall drinks to try

Looking for other great drinks to try? I suggest:

• Caramel apple sangria
• Pumpkin spice latte shots
• Pumpkin spice shake (non-alcoholic)
• Caramel apple Jell-O shots

Fall Mosow Mule

Yield: 1 drink

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Make a fall inspired Moscow mule for one or to share!

Print

Ingredients

• 2oz Vodka
• 1oz Lime Juice (1/2 lime)
• 2oz Apple Cider
• 2oz Ginger Beer
• 1 Lime Wedge (garnish)
• Apple Slice (garnish)
• Apple Cubes (garnish)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Add ice to a copper mug.
2. Pour in Vodka, ginger beer, and apple cider.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice.
4. Add lime wedge, apple cubes and an apple slice for garnish. 
5. Cheers! 

Notes

To make a pitcher add -

1 cup Vodka
1/2 cup Lime Juice
1 cup Apple Cider
1 cup Ginger Beer

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It’s apple season, and that means it’s time for all things apple-related! This caramel apple bundt cake is the perfect autumn dessert. The cake is moist and flavorful, with a delicious caramel glaze on top. It’s perfect for a special occasion or simply because you feel like something sweet. So go ahead and indulge in some autumn deliciousness!

What is Caramel Apple Cake?

This fall favorite is a combination of two classic desserts: apple pie and caramel cake. The result is a moist, flavorful cake that is bursting with fresh apples. The key to this recipe is to use a variety of apples, so that you get a mix of sweetness and acidity. Granny Smith apples are a good choice for this cake, as they add a tartness that helps to balance the sweetness of the caramel. 

Once the cake is baked, it is finished with a creamy caramel drizzle. This rich drizzle complements the flavors of the cake perfectly, and it also makes for a beautiful presentation. Whether you are serving it at a Halloween party or just enjoying it with your family, Caramel Apple Cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients Needed for a Caramel Apple Cake 

• Apples– Make sure to chop your apples up so they are all relatively the same size. Using a variety of apples gives you a mix of sweet and tart. 
• Butter– Room temperature butter makes it easier to blend. Let the butter sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes before using. 
• Sugar & Brown sugar- Unlike with flour, you will want to pack your sugar and brown sugar in the measuring cup. 
• All-purpose flour– Do not pack your flour. Instead, use a spoon to scoop it into the measuring cup and level it off with a butter knife. 
• Baking powder- The baking powder helps the cake rise giving it a moist and delicious texture. 
• Salt– Salt helps to combine all of the flavors. A little bit of  salt in baking is all you need. 
• Eggs– Room temperature eggs work best in baking. Set the eggs out with the butter before using in your batter. 
• Vanilla– Vanilla complements the flavors in the cake batter giving you a delicious vanilla cake mix. 
• Milk– You can use any kind of milk that you prefer. I use 2% or whole milk for this recipe. 
• Caramel– Get microwavable caramel. You will need to heat and melt it in the microwave. 

How to Make Caramel Apple Bundt Cake

This delicious caramel apple bundt cake is super easy to make. Just follow the steps below for an exquisite fall treat!

Step 1: Caramelize the Apples 

First, add the chopped apples, butter, and brown sugar to a saucepan. Then, saute them for about 10-minutes or until the apples are soft and the sugar is caramelized. 

Step 2: Preheat the oven

Next, preheat your oven to 350F. Then, spray and flour the bundt pan. 

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

Add the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, softened butter, eggs, vanilla, and milk to a large mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients together until fully incorporated. 

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Next, add the caramelized apples to the bottom of the bundt pan. Then, cover the apples with the cake mix. 

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Drizzle

Melt your caramel in the microwave until it comes out smooth. Then, drizzle it over the cooled cake. 

Serve and Enjoy!

Hot Drinks to Pair With It

I love pairing this caramel apple cake with a hot drink – it’s such a treat! Some of my favorite drinks to add with my cake are:

• Apple Crisp Macchiato
• Boozy White Hot Chocolate
• White Chocolate Vanilla Latte
• Instant Pot Apple Cider

What Type of Apples Do I Need? 

For a truly decadent caramel apple cake, you need to start with the right type of apples. While there are many different types of apples to choose from, Granny Smith apples are the best option for this recipe. They are tart and firm, making them perfect for holding up to the rich caramel sauce. Additionally, their green skin provides a nice contrast to the golden caramel. 

If you can’t find Granny Smith apples, another good option is Honeycrisp apples. These apples are also tart and firm, and their red and green skin adds a beautiful pop of color to the cake. Whatever type of apple you choose, be sure to use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture.

Can I Use a Boxed Cake Mix? 

Sure! If you’re in a pinch and need to make a caramel apple cake but don’t have all the ingredients on hand, you might be wondering if you can substitute a boxed cake mix. While it’s not the traditional way to make this dessert, it is possible to use a cake mix as a base for your cake. 

When choosing a cake mix, look for one that is flavored with spice or cinnamon. These will complement the flavors of the apples and caramel well. To jazz up the mix and make it more moist, add an extra egg and replace some of the water with applesauce.

Do I Have to Use a Bundt Pan?

No, you don’t. If you don’t have a bundt pan on hand, don’t worry – you can still make a delicious caramel apple cake using a regular cake pan.

What type of caramel do I need?

You can use your favorite caramel for the topping on this cake. The meltable caramels from the baking aisle are a great option. I have also drizzled homemade caramel sauce on top as well. Ice cream caramel sauce would work perfect as well. Any caramel you prefer or have on hand.

Other Apple Recipes to Try

Love a good apple recipe during fall? Same here! Here are some other favorites to try that we recommend:

• Apple Chai Latte
• Easy Apple Cider Scones
• Caramel Apple Danish
• Apple Walnut Crumb Cake

Caramel Apple Bundt Cake

Print

Ingredients

Caramelized Apples

• 2 cups chopped apples
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Land o Lakes Butter Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup Butter, softened
• 4 Eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 cup milk
• Microwaveable caramel

Instructions

Caramelized Apples

1. Add the chopped apples, butter and brown sugar.
2. Saute for about 10 minutes or until the apples are soft and the sugar has caramelized.

Butter Cake

1. Add all of the ingredients together and mix.
2. Preheat the over to 350.
3. Spray and flour the bundt pan.
4. Add the caramelized apples to the bottom of the bundt pan.
5. Cover with the butter cake mix.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Melt your caramel in the microwave until it comes out smooth.
8. Drizzle it over the cool cake.
9. Enjoy!

Notes

I mixed all the cake ingredients together and it came out great! Visit http://www.landolakes.com/recipe/1261/beckys-butter-cake for more detailed instructions.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 5306Cholesterol: 1283mgSodium: 1656mgCarbohydrates: 761gFiber: 16gSugar: 460gProtein: 75g

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Ah, fall! It’s such a wonderful time of year with the cooler weather and the holidays approaching. The flavors of fall are some of my favorites too. From pumpkin to apple to the warm flavors of chai, everything is just comforting and delicious. My homemade caramel apple sangria uses all the best flavors of fall and the result is an amazing drink perfect for sharing with friends.

What is A Caramel Apple Sangria

Caramel apple sangria is a delicious and easy-to-make fall cocktail. It combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples, and the result is a refreshing and festive drink.

It is a popular drink in the fall and winter months, when apples are in season. The drink can be made with any type of wine, but it is typically made with a sweet wine such as Moscato or Riesling. The apples are peeled and then sliced, before being soaked in the alcohol. For best results, let them soak  overnight.

Caramel Apple Sangria Ingredients 

For this delicious fall drink, you’ll only need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apples– Make sure to dice your apples. I like to peel them, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer. 
• Caramel syrup– You can use a premade caramel syrup, or you can make your own Instant Pot Dulce de Leche to use. 
• Apple cider– Apple cider adds more apple flavor and is perfect for Fall. You can even make Apple Cider in the Instant Pot for a fresher option. 
• Wine– You will need a whole bottle of wine. You can use Moscato, Riesling, Sangria, or any wine you prefer. 
• Vodka– I used the Caramel Vodka to really bring out the caramel flavors. You could use regular vodka as well, but the flavor won’t be as sweet. 

How to Make A Caramel Apple Sangria 

Follow the simple steps below for a delicious, boozy fall drink!

Step 1: Dice the Apples

Dice up your apples, wash them,  and place them into a large pitcher. 

Step 2: Add the Cider and Syrup

Next, add the caramel syrup and apple cider to the apples. Stir until the caramel is incorporated into the cider. 

Step 3: Add the Booze

Add 1 cup of Vodka and the entire bottle of wine to the mixture. Mix everything well. 

Step 4: Soak the Apples

Place the sangria in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours so the apples absorb the alcohol and the flavors can permeate the mixture. For best results, let it sit overnight. 

Step 5: Mix and Serve

Once it is chilled, mix it one last time, serve, and enjoy!

What Type of Apples Should I Use? 

Any type of apple will work, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best so they don’t turn to mush when you add them to the sangria.

Can I Make this Ahead of Time? 

Yes, caramel apple sangria is actually best when made in advance so the flavors have time to mingle. Just be sure to cover your pitcher and put it in the refrigerator. 

Fall Treats To Make

• Apple Cider Scones
• Caramel Apple Danish
• Cinnamon Apple Bites
• Autumn Harvest Sangria
• Apple Walnut Crumb Cake

Is There a Non-alcoholic Version?

If you want to make a kid-friendly version of this drink, simply omit the wine and replace it with an equal amount of sparkling cider or ginger ale. Be sure to increase the amount of caramel syrup since there won’t be any alcohol to balance it out.

How Long Will this Caramel Apple Sangria Keep?

This sangria will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator, after adding the apples and caramel sauce. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Other Fall Drinks to Try

• Pumpkin Spice Latte Shots
• Apple Chai Latte
• Boozy White Hot Chocolate
• Pumpkin Cider Recipe
• Caramel Apple Jell-o Shots

Caramel Apple Sangria

Yield: 10 glasses

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Additional Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Make the perfect fall drink to share with friends!

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Ingredients

• 4-5 Apples- diced
• ¼ cup Caramel syrup
• 8 cups Apple cider- chilled
• 1 cup Caramel vodka
• 1 750mL bottle of White wine

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, add in the diced apples. 
2. Follow with the caramel syrup and apple cider. 
3. Stir until the caramel is well incorporated into the cider.
4. Add in the vodka and bottle of wine.
5. Mix well and refrigerate for 3-4 hours.
6. Once chilled, mix one last time and serve.

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Starbucks released their fall menu and it had a few new drinks on it! Of course this makes me squeal because I love trying their new releases. The new drink that may be a regular on the fall menu is the Apple Crisp Macchiato! I tried it out and it’s so good! You know I had to recreate this easy copycat drink at home though. Let me introduce you to your new favorite fall coffee!

What is an apple crisp macchiato?

This drink combines a shot of espresso with an amazing apple brown sugar syrup. It’s similar to a caramel macchiato, but without the caramel. “Macchiato” means stained as the espresso “stains” the milk to make it look marked. My homemade apple crisp macchiato is made with real ingredients like apple cider and brown sugar!

Apple crisp macchiato ingredients

I love this drink because once you make the apple brown sugar syrup, you can have this drink whenever you want! To make your own macchiato you will need:

• Apple cider
• Brown sugar
• White sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Espresso
• Milk

Apple cider – This is what gives the macchiato it’s apple flavor! I do suggest getting apple cider over apple juice as it’s a richer flavor.

Brown sugar – Gives this drink a great depth of flavor and kind of caramelizes when making the syrup.

Cinnamon – You will need cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon. The cinnamon sticks go in the syrup the drink is topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also use apple pie spice!

Cloves – Whole cloves are used when making the syrup.

Espresso – You will need fresh espresso or strong coffee. Use whichever you prefer but a better quality coffee or espresso will make this drink taste more like Starbucks!

Milk – Any milk you like will work here. I love using heavy cream as it gives the drink a thicker consistency.

How to make an apple macchiato

This recipe can be broken into two steps – making the syrup and then assembling the macchiato. Let’s start with making the apple crisp syrup.

How to make apple syrup

1. Place all of your ingredients in a middle pot on medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a soft boil, stirring often.
3. Allow the sugars to dissolve and then bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
6. Pour the syrup into a mason jar and seal with a lid.
7. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. (Crystallization is normal.)

Assemble the apple crisp macchiato

Once you’ve made your syrup, you can make your macchiato! I love making the syrup and having it on hand because then I can make this drink whenever I want!

1. Add your syrup to the bottom of a glass.
2. Brew your espresso or coffee and pour it over the syrup. Stir to combine.
3. Steam your milk and pour it over the coffee mixture. Take a second to enjoy the coffee swirl action.
4. Top with frothed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
5. Sip and enjoy!

How many drinks does this make?

The recipe below makes one apple crisp macchiato but makes a 1/2 pint of the syrup. You can easily follow the steps below to make the drink over and over again once you’ve made the apple syrup.

How do I steam my milk?

You can easily steam you milk on the stove over medium heat. Stir the milk while it heats up until it’s frothy and warm. Add that to your drink. You can also use a coffee steamer attachment if you have an espresso or coffee maker that has one.

How can I froth my milk?

I use a milk frother to easily froth my milk for my DIY coffee drinks. You can use a milk frother or you can steam it and then whip it with an electric mixer. It’s an extra step and I suggest investing in a milk frother if you like making copycat coffee drinks at home. This Instant Pot milk frother is my favorite one!

How do I order an apple crisp macchiato at Starbucks?

The great thing is that during the fall and winter months you can simply ask for an apple crisp macchiato. You can do hot, iced or as a frapuccino. It gets a little tricky to order after it’s removed from the seasonal menu. I would ask your barista if they can still make it and if not, ask for something similar. My guess is they will give you a combination of a brown sugar oatmilk latte and a caramel macchiato.

How to store leftover apple syrup

Since this recipe only makes one macchiato, you only need to store the apple syrup for later. Place your apple syrup in a mason jar and screw the lid tightly. Keep it in the pantry where it is cool and dry. Some crystallization is normal when this syrup sits for a bit. It’s still good to use!

Fall treats to pair with your macchiato

When you have such a delicious drink, you are going to want to pair it with a delicious treat! Some of my favorite fall treats that go well with this macchiato are:

• Caramel apple danish
• Apple cider scones
• Starbucks copycat Apple fritters
• Starbucks chocolate croissants
• Starbucks copycat pumpkin scones

Helpful tips and tricks

This recipe is pretty easy but follow my tips below to make it as simple as possible.

1. Don’t walk away from the syrup. Stay close to your stove when you are making the syrup so that it doesn’t burn. You need to stir it often too.
2. Use freshly brewed espresso. You will want to use fresh brewed coffee or espresso for this drink. It will give this macchiato the best flavor.
3. Get a milk frother. I love the Instant Pot milk frother and use it daily! If you like to make fancy coffee drinks at home, this milk frother is a MUST!
4. Make it iced. Use cold brew coffee to easily make an iced version of this macchiato.

Starbucks copycat Apple Crisp Macchiato

Yield: 1 drink plus syrup

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Make an amazing copycat apple crisp macchiato at home for a fraction of the cost!

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Ingredients

• For the apple crisp syrup:
• 1 cup Apple cider
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar
• 1/2 cup White sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2-3 Cinnamon sticks
• 2-3 Cloves, whole
• For the macchiato
• 1 shot of Espresso or 1 cup of hot coffee
• 1 cup of Milk, divided
• sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Place the apple cider, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla, cinnamon sticks and cloves in a medium sauce pan. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the syrup has thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
4. Brew your espresso or coffee.
5. Add a tablespoon or two of the apple syrup to a glass.
6. Pour in the coffee and stir to combine.
7. Steam 1/2 of your milk on the stove top and add it to your coffee.
8. Froth the other half of the milk and pour it on top.
9. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
10. Enjoy!

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Other copycat Starbucks recipes to try:

You know I love a good copycat Starbucks drink. Here are some others to try out:

• Pumpkin cream cold brew
• Maple pecan latte
• Salted caramel mocha
• Caramel brulee latte
• Iced vanilla latte
• Gingerbread latte
• Medicine ball tea

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card above or the comments below.

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Yall know that I love a good chai recipe! Chai is one of my favorite teas and it is perfect for fall. The spices that are used in chai are so flavorful and give me all the sweater weather vibes. This apple chai latte is just the most fall version of any of the chai lattes.

What is an apple chai latte?

A classic chai latte is a combination of black tea and a number of spices such as allspice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and star of anise. These spices are intense, woodsy and full of fall flavor. This apple version uses real apples to create the ultimate fall drink. So it’s a classic chai latte with apple infused flavor.

Apple chai latte ingredients

One of the best parts about this fall drink recipe is that you don’t need a bunch of ingredients to make it. Heck, you probably have most of them on hand or can easily grab them from the grocery store. You will need:

• Chai tea bags – You can use any chai tea bags that you like. I love using the Tazo tea brand, as that’s the brand that Starbucks uses.
• Water
• An apple – You will need one large apple. You can use any apple variety that you’d like. I love using a sweeter apple for this recipe since the flavor gets infused into the tea.
• Sweetener – Feel free to use your favorite sweetener in this drink. Sugar works. Brown sugar gives it a great depth of flavor. Want to keep it low calorie or low carb? Use a keto sweetener instead.
• Milk – Any milk will work here. You can keep it dairy-free by using coconut or almond milk.
• Whipped cream – This is optional, but who doesn’t love a big dollop of whipped cream on top of their warm fall flavored drink?

How to make a chai latte in the crock pot

Not only do you only need a handful of ingredients to make this drink, but it’s also super easy to make too! It’s literally a set it and forget it type of drink. Oh, and it makes your whole house smell amazing!

Step 1 Add your ingredients – Place your water, chai tea bags and sliced apple in the Crock Pot. If you want to give this drink even more flavor, add some additional spices like cinnamon sticks or whole cloves.

Step 2 Cook – Turn the Crock Pot on high and allow to cook for 4 hours. This will give the tea enough time steep and become infused with the apple flavor.

Step 3 Serve – Remove the tea bags, stir everything together and pour into mugs. Add your sweetener to the chai and stir to combine. Pour in your milk and top with whipped cream.

How to make in the Instant Pot

This apple chai recipe is super easy to in your Instant Pot too! You need all of the same ingredients, but follow the directions below –

1. Place the sliced apple, water and chai tea bags in the Instant Pot.
2. Seal the lid and valve.
3. Cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Manually release the built up pressure.
5. Remove the tea bags and serve.

How to make on the stove top

Don’t want to make this in your Crock Pot or Instant Pot? No worries! You can easily make this on the stove top in a large pot.

1. Place the apple, tea bags and the water in a large pot on the stove top.
2. Bring to a boil.
3. Allow to boil for 5 minutes and remove from heat.
4. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes and then remove the tea bags.
5. Stir and serve in a mug.

Tips and tricks

This apple chai latte is an easy recipe, but I do have some tips to make it the best fall drink you’ve ever had.

• You can toss the tea bags directly into the water, or you can place them on the edge of the inner pot and put the lid on it. This way you don’t have the entire bag submerged.
• Wring out your tea bags into the Crock Pot to get all an even more intense flavor.
• You can cook this on low for 6 hours if you have more time.
• Add fresh whole spices to give this drink and even better flavor. Whole cloves (use only a few!), cinnamon sticks, and star anise make great additions. Be sure to remove them before serving.
• Feel free to add the sugar directly to the Crock Pot before you serve up the drink. I would start with 1 cup of sugar and adjust it to your preference.
• Make this recipe dairy free by using coconut or almond milk in your chai latte.

How to store leftovers

If you have any leftover apple chai, allow it to cool completely before placing it in a large mason jar with a lid. I love using the 1/2 gallon Ball mason jars. They are perfect for holding not only leftover chai latte, but for making homemade cold brew!

Other chai latte recipes to try

You know that I love a good chai latte by now. Some other recipes that I suggest you try are:

• Iced chai latte
• Dirty chai latte
• Frozen chai latte
• Vanilla iced chai latte

Apple Chai Latte

Yield: 6-8 drinks

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours

Make the perfect fall drink with this easy Crock Pot apple chai latte.

Print

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 6 chai tea bags
• 1 large apple, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sugar, or to taste
• 1/2 cup milk
• whipped cream, optional

Instructions

Add the water, tea bags and sliced apple to your crock pot.

Cook on high for 4 hours.

Allow to cool before transferring to cups or pitcher.

Add your sugar, milk and whipped cream.

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 192Cholesterol: 14mgSodium: 117mgCarbohydrates: 37gFiber: 5gSugar: 30gProtein: 5g

Did you make this recipe?

If you loved this recipe, we would love for you to leave a review to help others!

Other apple recipes to try:

We love apple around here, especially during the fall. Some of our favorite apple recipes are:

• Caramel apple danish
• Starbucks apple fritters
• Apple cider scones
• Caramel apple bundt cake

Did you make this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review in the recipe card or in the comments below. Want to try it later? Pin the image below to your favorite food or drink board!

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I’m not sure if I love danishes because they pair so well with coffee, or because they are deliciously sweet treat on their own. Either way, they are a truly decadent breakfast recipe that are super easy to make. Once I learned how to make the Starbucks copycat cheese danish, I was ready to up my danish making game. These caramel apple danishes are just another flavor combo that I know you’ll love.

What are danishes?

Danishes are a soft, flaky pastry that is filled with a fruit and cream cheese center. They are sometimes called danish pastries, but more often than not, they are referred to as danishes. They are made of flaky layers of puff pastry, with a deliciously sweet topping in the center.

Apple danish ingredients

I love how simple it is to make these danishes. You only need a handful of ingredients to make apple danishes at home. You will nee:

• puff pastry
• granny smith apples
• brown sugar
• ground cinnamon
• egg
• caramel sauce

Puff pastry – You will need 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry for this recipe. You can made and use homemade puffy pastry, if you’d like.

Apples – Granny Smith apples work best in this recipe. The tartness from the apple pairs well with the brown sugar and the caramel sauce. You can use any apple you like or have on hand though.

Caramel sauce – You can use your favorite caramel sauce for this recipe. I love using my homemade caramel sauce with cream, but any caramel will work here.

How to make apple danishes with caramel

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you will also need to grab:

• baking sheet
• parchment paper
• knife
• measuring cups and spoons
• cooling rack

Step 1 Prepare the puff pastry Place the puff pastry on a floured surface or a cutting board. Unfold it and cut it into 6 rectangles. This is easy to do if you have the frozen puff pastry as it is already folded into 3 sections. Cut along each fold and then cut those in half.

Step 2 Score the pastry Using a pairing knife, score the puff pastry in the center, creating a rectangle. This is where you will place the filling.

Step 3 Add the filling Place 3-4 apple slices in the center of the puff pastry, where you just made your rectangle. Mix together the brown sugar and the cinnamon and sprinkle it over the top of the apple slices.

Step 4 Bake Brush your egg wash over the sides of the pastry. This is optional, but will give the edges of the pastry a nice crispy texture. Add the baking sheet with the prepared danishes to the oven and bake for 15-17 minutes.

Step 5 Add caramel sauce After the apple danishes are done baking, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. You can also add flaky sea salt as a finishing touch. Allow to cool on a cooling rack.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes! You can! Homemade puff pastry uses a few common ingredients and you can easily make it at home. Follow this recipe for puff pastry.

What kind of apples do I need?

You can use any type of apples that you like. I love the combination of sweet and tart that comes with using Granny Smith apples, but you can use any variety that you love.

Other danish recipes to try

Homemade danishes are super easy to make and great for breakfast, snacks or dessert. Some of my other danish recipes are:

• Cherry danishes
• Blueberry danishes
• Starbucks copycat cheese danish
• Strawberry danishes

How to store leftovers

Place any leftover danishes in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also leave them on the counter, but they will last longer if stored in the fridge.

Can I freeze danishes?

Yes! You can! Place the cooked danishes in a Ziplock bag in the freezer. Make sure to remove any air. They will keep for 3 months. Thaw in the freezer and enjoy!

Tips and tricks

• Make sure to use puff pastry sheets, not shells or phyllo dough. It’s also important to thaw your dough according to the package directions. You want it to be cold, but not frozen.
• I love granny smith apples with caramel but feel free to use any tart baking apple.
• Light brown sugar pairs perfectly with apples but granulated sugar will also work if that’s what you have on hand.
• An egg wash helps the puff pastry brown and crisp in the oven. You can make an egg wash by whisking an egg and adding a bit of water to it.
• Make sure to use a good quality caramel sauce in this recipe! It really makes a difference.

Caramel Apple Danish

Yield: 6 danishes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Make a super flaky pastry topped with tart apples and sweet caramel sauce.

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Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large granny smith apples, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 large egg, beaten with a splash of water
• ¼ cup caramel sauce
• Flakey sea salt, optional

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is 1/4” thick.

Cut the puff pastry into six rectangles. Use a paring knife to gently slice a ¼” thick border around the edge-- make sure not to cut all the way through the puff pastry!

Fill the center of the puff pastry with sliced apple.

In a small bowl stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the Danishes.

Brush the border of the Danishes with egg wash.

Bake the Danishes for 15-17 minutes or until the edges of the pastry are golden brown.

Allow the pastry to cool on the pan and then drizzle over the caramel sauce. Top with a sprinkle of flaky salt, if desired.

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For me, it’s not truly fall until I have had my first pumpkin spice latte for the season. I enjoy sipping my latte while thinking of the busy season ahead. Halloween, birthdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Apple cider is my husbands pumpkin spice latte. It’s not really fall for him until he has whipped up a batch of homemade apple cider.

This apple cider recipe is perfect for whipping up a quick batch to signal that fall is officially here. And if you love Instant Pot recipes, be sure to check out my other site – easy Instant Pot dinners! I hope you find a new favorite recipe.

Instant Pot Apple Cider

Apple cider is unsweetened and unfiltered apple juice. We have an apple press and when you press out the apples and remove the guts, you are left with apple cider. When you put it in a jar or jug you will get sediment on the bottom since it’s not filtered. And that’s ok! It’s good for you.

This Instant Pot apple cider takes the concept of fresh pressed cider and turns it into a delicious fall drink. Instead of just the apples, we add in some oranges and spices that gives it an amazing flavor. It’s great hot, but you can also chill it and drink it cold.

Instant Pot Apple Cider Ingredients

I love that this apple cider recipe uses only a handful of easy to find ingredients. You can probably grab them all at your local grocery store. To make this cider in your Instant Pot you will need:

• Apples
• Orange
• Cinnamon sticks
• Brown sugar
• Cloves
• Nutmeg
• Water

Apples – You will need about a dozen apples for this recipe. Grab a variety of apples so that you get some sweet notes mixed in with some tart ones. Granny Smiths, Macintosh, Galas, etc.

Orange – One orange is all that is needed here. It brings a great contrasting flavor in this cider.

Cinnamon sticks – Grab a few cinnamon sticks to add in the Instant Pot when cooking.

Brown sugar – Sometimes we add brown sugar and sometimes we leave it out. It gives a nice caramel-y flavor to the drink but is not needed for sweetness.

Spices – Cloves and nutmeg are 2 spices that are perfect for fall baking. They add a great depth of flavor. You can use whole or ground cloves and nutmeg. You can also use apple pie spice or even pumpkin pie spice, if you need a quick substitute.

How to make apple cider in the Instant Pot

Once you have gathered all your ingredients you will also need to grab:

• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese cloth
• Instant Pot

Step 1 Cut your fruit

Using your cutting board and knife, slice up your fruit. They don’t have to be perfect as you are just going to pressure cook them until they are mushy and soft anyways.

Step 2 Add it to your pot

Place everything in your Instant Pot including water to cover everything. The fruit will give off some liquid as well, so don’t completely fill the pot with water.

Step 3 Pressure cook

Put your lid on your Instant Pot and cook on manual high pressure for 25 minutes. Allow it to come to pressure naturally for 10 minutes and then remove any built up pressure.

Step 4 Mash and strain

Once you all the pressured released, use a potato masher to mash the apple and the orange. I would remove the cinnamon sticks before this step. Strain the cider through cheese cloth into a large pitcher or mason jar. Toss all the solids that are leftover. Enjoy warm.

What’s the difference between apple juice and apple cider?

Apple juice has been filtered and pasteurized. It is also lighter, sweeter and clearer. Apple cider is the raw juice that has not been filtered as much. There is often sediment at the bottom of apple cider glasses, which is normal and delicious!

Is there alcohol in apple cider?

Nope, there isn’t. Hard cider would be apple cider with alcohol. You can easily add a shot of vodka to your glass of apple cider to make it an adult-only beverage, if you’d like.

What kind of apples do I need?

The great thing about this recipe is that you can use any apples that you’d like. I enjoy using a combination of sweet and tart apples for my apple cider. It produces a great depth of flavor.

Can you make apple cider with apple juice?

Yes! You absolutely can. Replace the water with apple juice and omit the brown sugar if you plan to use apple juice in this recipe.

How to make apple cider in a Crock Pot

You can easily make this Instant Pot apple cider recipe in your slow cooker. Actually, my husband prefers it made in the Crock Pot! Follow all of the instructions but change the cook time to 3 hours. After 3 hours, mash the fruit and them strain it out. You can then leave it on the warm setting and pour it into glasses as needed.

Tips and tricks

This is a pretty straightforward recipe, but here are some tips to make it even better.

1. You don’t have to remove the cinnamon sticks or the whole cloves from the Instant Pot before you mash it. Some people prefer too, but they will get strained out later.
2. Garnish your drink with a slice of apple or orange and an additional cinnamon stick.
3. Allow the apple cider to cool a bit before drinking. It will be VERY hot!

How to store leftovers

Place any leftover cider in a large pitcher and place it in the fridge. You can heat it up in the microwave or on the stove top when you want to enjoy it again. You can also drink it cold!

Can I freeze apple cider?

Yes! You can freeze apple cider. Allow it to cool and then place it in an empty plastic milk jug. Leave some space on top for it to expand. Place it in your freezer. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Remove it to the fridge and allow it to defrost when you want another glass.

Instant Pot Apple Cider

Yield: 1 gallon

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Make hot apple cider in your Instant Pot in no time!

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Ingredients

• 11 Apples- sliced (variety of sweet and sour)
• 1 Orange- peeled and sliced
• 5 Cinnamon sticks
• ¾ cup Brown sugar
• 1 tsp Whole cloves
• 2 ½ Ground nutmeg
• Fresh Water

Instructions

1. Place sliced apples and oranges into the pot.
2. Add all spices on top of the fruit.
3. Add enough water into the pot to cover the fruit (around a gallon). 
4. Pressure cook on high manual for 25 minutes. Your Instant Pot will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure.
5. Naturally release for 10 minutes and then remove any remaining pressure.
6. When the fruit is soft enough, mash with a large spoon. 
7. Allow to cool for 15-20 minutes.
8. Strain cider with cheesecloth into a pitcher. Discard all solids. (Strain cider twice for best results)
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Did you make this recipe?

If you loved this recipe, we would love for you to leave a review to help others!

Other fall drinks to try:

Fall is one of my favorite seasons. Fall drinks are hands down the best. Some of fall drink recipes to try are:

• Starbucks pumpkin cream cold brew
• Crock Pot apple chai latte
• Pumpkin spice whipped coffee
• Pumpkin spice iced coffee
• Spiced apple cider sangria

Did you try this recipe? I’d love for you to leave a review above in the recipe card or below in the comments. Want to try it later? You can pin the image below. I appreciate your support!

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