Who's thirsty?! Instead of hitting the wine this Wine Wednesday, I'm breaking out my slow cooker for some serious boozy deliciousness...

Nothing says fall and winter quite like a warm mug full of mulled apple cider. Cuddling up in a warm blanket, next to a wood burning fire, with some Netflix binging lined up for the remainder of the evening is how I like to take it easy.

This recipe is great to make and keep on hand in your refrigerator for the week so you can enjoy it each night, but it also works great as a holiday cocktail for your next party! Serve it up in some mugs with cinnamon sticks and everyone will go absolutely nuts over this stuff. It's highly addictive because it's so dang comforting. No matter how cold it gets outside, a glass of this cider will always warm ya right back up in moments.

The ingredients are super simple and the effort is basically NOTHING. Just dump it all in and let it simmer for the day. When you're ready to serve, stir in the vodka! We wouldn't want any of that booze burning off in the cooking process, now would we? ;)

I know what I am going to be whipping up all weekend long... And now you do too!

[vimeo 187844299 w=640 h=360]

Boozy Crockpot Apple Cider from Pig of the Month BBQ on Vimeo.

INSTRUCTIONS: Serves 12 Add apple cider, cinnamon sticks orange zest, cloves, star anise and allspice berries to the insert of a crockpot. Cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours. When ready to serve, add vodka and stir to combine. Remove cinnamon sticks and spices with a fine mesh sieve. Serve immediately. If you are preparing this for a party, keep the slow cooker on it's lowest heat setting throughout the evening. Serve with cinnamon sticks for an added touch of deliciousness, and class.

*Recipe, photos and video by Meghan Bassett