Quick and Easy Caramel Apple Cider Crockpot Recipe

We had this as a fun Christmas treat.  It was a hit with everyone.

Quick and Easy Caramel Apple Cider Crockpot Recipe

from here

The Ingredients.

serves 4, (can easily be multiplied --use a larger cooker though!)

4 cups apple cider

3 tablespoons caramel syrup (the ice cream topping)

1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

4 tablespoons sweetened whipped cream (optional; I leave it off for my kids)

The Directions.

Use a 2-quart slow cooker. Now this is sweet---I've modeled it after the stuff they serve at the store. After making it this way a few times, I've successfully cut back on the syrup without my kids (and their friends!) knowing---do what is right for your own family.

Mix it all in together---stir, and cook on low for about 4 hours. I like to put it on after I clean up the breakfast dishes and then leave it alone until our after-school snack. I've also made a large pot for Girl Scout events and  playdates. The kids really like it, and it's a nice change of pace from hot chocolate with marshmallows.

Leftovers refrigerate and reheat well (in the microwave).

Reindeer Food

Mandy gave us this recipe last year. I just copied it exactly like she gave it to us.

Every Christmas Eve we sprinkle just a bit of Reindeer food to attract the reindeer to our house. It helps them to know which houses to go to and guide Santa in the right direction. Since we have started this tradition, Santa has never missed our house (nor did he miss it before!). It's just a simple activity that we enjoy. Here is the recipe:

1 scoop oatmeal - to keep them healthy
1 scoop hot cocoa mix - to keep them warm while they fly
1 scoop marshmallows - to keep them jolly
scoop red and green sprinkles - to give them magic to fly

Mix the scoops together in a small bag, scoops being a 1/2 tsp or so.

Sprinkle on the lawn at night,
The moon will make it sparkle bright.
Santa's reindeer fly and roam,
This will guide them to your home!

Merry Christmas!!