Apple Cider Slushie

No fall is complete without a trip to the apple orchard (in our minds, at least!). This year, after we picked our apples with friends, our son Larson and I got an apple cider slushie to share. Man, was it refreshing! The slushie was just sweet enough, the perfect beverage for a crisp fall day. Of course, my first thought was: I have to make this at home! Alex and I got to cooking, and came up with how to do it. Here’s that apple cider slushie: it’s got a pure cider flavor and a cozy hint of cinnamon and cloves. Best of all, it looks stunning for fall entertaining or leaf peeping! Here’s how to make it. More apple recipes we love? This stunning apple pie, cozy apple crisp, applesauce, sauteed apples (a la mode!). and these apple streusel muffins (plus a vegan version).

How to an apple cider slushie: two methods

It couldn’t be easier to make a homemade apple cider slushie: don’t worry, you don’t need a slushie machine! There are two different methods for making it: the ice cream machine method, and the blender method. Here are the pros and cons of both.

Method 1: Ice cream maker

The ice cream maker method is the quickest method: it takes just 10 minutes to make a slushie! All you have to do is mix together the cider and spices and pour it in! It comes together with the perfect slushie texture. The down side is that you have to have an ice cream maker! Here’s the 2 quart ice cream maker Alex and I use: see the section below on why we think it’s worth your while to have one.

Method 2: Blender

The blender method takes a little longer, but you don’t need an ice cream maker! All you need is a blender, which we assume you probably have on hand. In this method, you’ll mix together the cider and spices and freeze them in ice cube trays. Then freeze them until they’re solid, about 3 to 4 hours depending on your freezer. When you’re ready to make the apple cider slushies, you’ll blend the ice cubes with a splash of cider to help it blend.

Serving an apple cider slushie (and can you make it spiked?)

The best part about this apple cider slushie is the garnish, I think! Alex made up little apple slices for the garnish. And those red and white striped straws look just perfect, right? (His idea.) You can serve the slushie in any glasses: stemless wine glasses look particularly good. Want to make a spiked apple cider slushie instead? We haven’t tried it, but looks like you could blend in about 1 cup bourbon into the mix to make a boozy slushie. Or, you can try it warm: we have a great recipe for Spiked Apple Cider. Speaking of hot cider…make sure to try our Hot Apple Cider or Slow Cooker Apple Cider when you’re in the mood for a warm drink. And that’s all: how to make the perfect fall slushie! Let us know if you try it in the comments below.

What’s the best ice cream maker?

What’s the best ice cream maker? Alex and I use this 2 quart ice cream maker and love it: it’s high quality, durable, and works every time. We previously had an ice cream maker that didn’t get the ice cream cold enough and turned out melty, so that’s saying something! An ice cream maker is a great holiday or birthday present to ask for, if you don’t want to splurge for it. Outside of an apple cider slushie, you can make ice cream like Salted Chocolate Vegan Ice Cream or our favorite, Jamoca Almond Fudge! Or our Lemon Gelato is a must try.

A few more fall drink recipes…

Looking for more fall drinks or cocktails? Try this:

Fall Sangria or Apple Sangria Pairs apple cider with red wine and cinnamon. In a word: wow. Apple Cider Cocktail Sweet cider with bourbon and lemon! A fantastic fall signature drink. Apple Cider Mimosa The perfect winter or fall brunch cocktail! Combine cider with champagne for a festive treat. Pumpkin Spiced Ice Coffee This iced coffee is refreshing and cozy all at once. Mulled Cider or Hot Apple Cider The very best cozy drink! Infused with spices like cinnamon and cloves, you can make it in a slow cooker or on the stove.