Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe

There’s something special about sipping a cold, sweet apple cider on a warm afternoon or chilly evening. And when I made this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe, it turned out even better than I expected.

Using my Ninja Slushi machine, I made a frozen drink that tasted just like the ones from those cute little cider shops—but right in my own kitchen. The best part? It’s super easy, and anyone can do it.

If you’ve already tried my Ninja Slushi Blue Raspberry Recipe, you’ll know how fun and simple it is to use this frozen drink maker.

Now we’re taking those cozy apple flavors and turning them into something frosty and refreshing. You don’t need fancy skills or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few everyday items and your Ninja Slushi machine.

Why You Love This Ninja Slushi Apple Cider

This Ninja Slushi Apple Cider is a total game-changer, and here’s why you’ll be hooked:

1. Super Easy: Just pour, press, and sip—no complicated steps!
2. Fall Vibes: It’s like drinking a cozy apple orchard in slush form.
3. Customizable: Add spices or a splash of something fun for adults.
4. Kid-Friendly: Everyone in the family can enjoy this cool treat.
5. Quick Cleanup: The Ninja Slushi makes cleaning a breeze.

I can’t get enough of this recipe because it’s so simple yet feels so special. The Ninja Slushi turns plain apple cider into a frosty delight in about 20-30 minutes.

Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this tasty slush. I’ve broken down each ingredient so you know exactly why it’s in there and how to pick the best one.

• Apple Cider (4 cups): Fresh cider is best for a tangy, apple-packed flavor. Pick one with just apples, no added sugar. Avoid apple juice for a bolder taste.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 tsp, optional): Adds a cozy, warm vibe. Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor, or skip it.
• Caramel Syrup (1 tbsp, optional): Gives a sweet, caramel apple twist. Find it in the coffee aisle or skip for a lighter drink.
• Whipped Cream (optional, for topping): A dollop makes it dessert-like. Use store-bought or homemade.
• Caramel Vodka (1/4 cup, optional for adults): Adds a fun kick for grown-ups. Skip for kid-friendly drinks.

Helpful Swaps

If you don’t have all the ingredients or want to mix things up, here are some easy swaps:

1. No fresh apple cider? Use apple juice, but it’ll be a bit sweeter and less tangy. Look for 100% juice with no added sugar.
2. No caramel syrup? Try maple syrup or honey for a different sweet note. Start with a teaspoon and taste as you go.
3. No ground cinnamon? A pinch of nutmeg or allspice works great for that warm spice flavor.
4. No caramel vodka? Regular vodka or bourbon can add a kick for adults. Use sparingly—about 1/4 cup for 4 cups of cider.
5. No whipped cream? Skip it or top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flair.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider, but here’s what I use:

• Ninja Slushi Machine: The star of the show! It churns and freezes the cider into a perfect slush. Make sure it’s clean and set up on a flat surface.
• Liquid Measuring Cup: A 4-cup measuring cup with a spout makes pouring the cider into the machine super easy.
• Whisk or Spoon: If you’re adding cinnamon or syrup, a whisk or spoon helps mix everything smoothly.
• Glasses or Cups: I use tall glasses to serve the slush, but any cup works. Have a few ready for serving.
• Spoon (optional): If you’re adding whipped cream or a drizzle, a spoon is handy for topping.

How To Make Ninja Slushi Apple Cider

Making this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe is so easy, even if you’ve never used a Ninja Slushi before. I’ll walk you through each step so you can make it like a pro. Let’s get started!

Step 1 | Get Your Ninja Slushi Ready

First, I make sure my Ninja Slushi machine is clean and set up on a flat counter. The manual says to let it sit upright for 2 hours before using it the first time, so plan ahead if it’s brand new. I slide the condensation catch under the evaporator and lock the vessel in place with the bail handle. Easy peasy!

Step 2 | Mix Your Ingredients

I grab a 4-cup measuring cup and pour in 4 cups of fresh apple cider. If I’m feeling extra cozy, I add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup. I whisk it gently to mix everything well. If you’re making an adult version, add 1/4 cup of caramel vodka now, but only for grown-ups! Make sure the cider is cold from the fridge—it freezes faster.

Step 3 | Pour Into the Machine

I open the lid on top of the Ninja Slushi and pour the cider mix through the easy-fill port. The machine can hold up to 64 ounces, but I stick to 4 cups (32 ounces) for this recipe. I close the lid tightly to avoid any spills.

Step 4 | Set the Preset

I plug in the machine and press the power button. Then, I choose the “Frozen Juice” preset since apple cider is a naturally sweetened drink. The machine starts at the default temperature, but I set it to level 3 for a nice, icy texture. You can go higher (like level 5) if you want it thicker.

Step 5 | Let It Freeze

Now, I let the Ninja Slushi do its magic. It usually takes 20-30 minutes for the cider to turn into a slush. The machine’s auger spins and freezes the liquid, so it’s never watery like a blender slush. I check it when the machine beeps, which means it’s ready. If it’s not thick enough, I press the up button to freeze it a bit more.

Step 6 | Serve It Up

I place a glass on the drip tray under the handle. Then, I slowly pull the handle to pour the slush into the glass. It comes out frosty and perfect! If I’m feeling fancy, I top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel syrup.

Recipe Tips for Success

Here are some quick tips to make your Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe turn out amazing every time:

• Use Cold Cider: Chill your apple cider in the fridge first. It freezes faster and tastes fresher.
• Check Sugar Content: Fresh cider has natural sugars, so don’t add extra unless you taste it first.
• Don’t Add Ice: The Ninja Slushi freezes the liquid itself, so skip ice cubes—they’ll water it down.
• Adjust Thickness: If the slush is too thin, increase the freeze level by one or two notches.
• Clean Right Away: Rinse the machine after use to avoid sticky residue.

Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Serving Suggestion

Here’s how I love to serve this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider to make it extra special:

1. Chilled Glasses: Pop your glasses in the fridge for 10 minutes before serving for an extra-cold slush.
2. Fun Toppings: Add whipped cream, a caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like treat.
3. Apple Slices: Garnish with a thin apple slice for a cute, orchard-inspired look.
4. Serve with Snacks: Pair with cookies or pretzels for a sweet-salty combo.
5. Outdoor Vibes: Enjoy it on the porch or at a picnic for that perfect fall feel.

I love serving this slush in chilled glasses with a little whipped cream on top—it feels like a special treat! The apple cider’s tangy sweetness pairs so well with a caramel drizzle or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

How to Store Ninja Slushi Apple Cider

Storing this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider is simple, but you need to act fast since slushes melt quickly:

1. Fridge: Pour any leftover slush into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’ll melt but stays tasty. Stir before serving.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, pour the slush into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours and stir well before serving.
3. Serve Fresh: For the best texture, enjoy it right after making it.

Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can use apple juice, but it’s sweeter and less tangy than cider. Look for 100% apple juice with no added sugar for the best flavor. Fresh apple cider gives a more vibrant taste, so I recommend it if you can find it. If you use juice, you might want to add a pinch of cinnamon to boost the flavor.

2. How long does it take to make the slush?

It usually takes 20-30 minutes in the Ninja Slushi, depending on how cold your cider is. If you start with refrigerated cider, it’s faster. The machine beeps when it’s ready, but you can increase the freeze level if you want a thicker slush. I’ve found level 3 is perfect for most drinks.

3. Can I make this without a Ninja Slushi machine?

You can try a blender, but it won’t be the same. Blend apple cider with ice cubes until slushy, but it might get watery. The Ninja Slushi freezes without ice, so it keeps the flavor strong. If you don’t have the machine, check out my no-equipment method here.

4. Is this recipe safe for kids?

Absolutely, if you skip the caramel vodka! The basic recipe with just apple cider, cinnamon, and caramel syrup is kid-friendly and super tasty. I’ve made it for my family, and the kids love it with whipped cream on top. Just double-check that your cider is pasteurized for safety.

5. Can I add other spices to the recipe?

Yes, you can get creative! I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth. Start with a tiny amount—maybe 1/8 teaspoon—and taste as you go. Too much spice can overpower the apple flavor, so I keep it light to let the cider shine.

6. How do I clean the Ninja Slushi after making this?

Cleaning is a breeze! I pour hot water into the vessel, press the rinse button, and dispense the water like a drink. It takes less than a minute. Make sure to do this right after serving to avoid sticky residue. The manual says to avoid dishwashers for the vessel, so I stick to hand-rinsing.

Did you make this Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Recipe? Please leave a ⭐ rating and review!