Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Cider

(Courtesy of Taste of Home)

Ingredients:
8 c. apple cider or juice
1 c. caramel flavoring syrup
1/4 c. lemon juice
1 vanilla bean
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
1 Tbsp. whole allspice
Whipped cream, hot caramel ice cream topping and cinnamon sticks (3 inches), optional

Directions:
In a 3 quart slow cooker, combine the apple cider, caramel syrup and lemon juice.  Split vanilla bean and scrape seeds; add seeds to cider mixture.  Place the bean, cinnamon sticks and allspice on a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up to corners of cloth and tie with string to form a bag.  Add to cider mixture.

Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through.  Discard spice bag.  Pour cider into mugs; garnish with whipped cream, caramel topping and additional cinnamon sticks if desired.