If you’ve been struggling to figure out what actually works in the Ninja Slushi machine, you’re not alone. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve poured something in, crossed my fingers, and ended up with half-frozen juice or a big icy block instead of a real slush. That’s why I had to nail down this Apple Cider Slush recipe. It blends perfectly, freezes just right, and gives you that smooth, sippable texture without all the trial and error.
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Think of this cider as fall in a glass, sweet, spiced, and refreshing. The best part is you don’t have to waste another batch trying to guess what will actually freeze. This one works every single time.
You will love my other Ninja Slushi Recipes like Ninja Slushi Pumpkin Spice Milkshake, Ninja Slushi Chocolate Milkshake, and Ninja Slushi Vanilla Protein Shake.
Be sure to read my How-to Guide and Honest Review of the Ninja Slushi Machine here.
Key Ingredients
- Apple cider – The main ingredient, It’s sweet, tangy, and full of cozy fall flavor all on its own. Using real cider (not just apple juice) gives the slushi that deep, spiced apple taste that makes it feel seasonal and special.
- Ground cinnamon – Cinnamon is what takes the apple cider from “refreshing” to “warm and cozy.” Even in a cold slushi, it adds that comforting spice that makes it taste like autumn in a cup.
- Brown sugar – This adds a rich sweetness with a hint of molasses that pairs perfectly with the apple cider. It rounds out the flavors and makes the slushi taste more like a fall treat than just frozen apple juice. I use brown monkfruit sweetener in mine.
How to Make Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Slushis
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Chill the cider first: Pop your apple cider in the fridge so it’s nice and cold before you start. Cold liquid makes the machine process faster.
- Mix: Combine the cider, brown sugar or sweetener, and cinnamon. Stir and whisk to combine.
- Load the reservoir: Pour the apple cider into the drink reservoir.
- Start the machine: Place your cup under the spout, lock everything into place, and hit the slushi setting.
- Processing: Allow the machine to process. Let the machine run for 15-45 minutes, depending on the sugar content and temperature of the liquid. Mine took 20 minutes.
- Once the cycle is complete, place a cup under the self-serve spout and pull the handle to dispense the cider.
Troubleshooting Tips if You Have Problems with the Ninja Slushi Machine
- Check the Liquid Ratio – If the mixture is too thick, the machine may struggle to process it. Try adding 1-2 tablespoons of additional liquid (water) and restart the cycle.
- Make Sure the Mixture is Cold Enough – The machine works best when the liquid is super cold. If your base wasn’t chilled before adding it to the machine, try refrigerating or briefly freezing it before processing.
- Let It Process Fully – The Ninja Slushi Machine may take a few minutes to reach the right consistency. Be patient and let it complete the cycle. If needed, restart the process.
- Check for Ice Blockage – If the mixture is freezing unevenly, it may be too cold or concentrated in one area. Let it sit for a minute, give it a gentle stir, and try again.
- Ensure the Machine is Properly Assembled – Double-check that all parts (including the lid and paddle) are locked into place. If something is misaligned, the machine may not operate correctly.
Substitutions and Add-ins Ideas
- Caramel drizzle – Swirl some caramel sauce in the blender or drizzle it down the sides of your glass for a caramel apple vibe.
- Whipped cream topping – A little whipped cream on top makes it feel like a fall dessert in a cup.
- Bourbon or whiskey – Add a splash for a grown-up version that warms you up even while it’s icy cold.
- Fireball (cinnamon whiskey) – If you love cinnamon, this takes it up a notch with a spicy kick.
- Maple syrup – Swap or add to the brown sugar for a deeper, cozy sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Just a splash rounds out the flavors and makes it taste extra smooth.
- Cinnamon sugar rim – Coat the rim of your glass with cinnamon sugar for a fun, festive touch.
- Frozen apple slices – Toss a few in the blender or use them as a garnish—they double as decoration and extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can, but cider has a deeper, spiced apple flavor that makes this slushi taste more like fall. If you use apple juice, I recommend adding a little extra cinnamon or even a pinch of nutmeg.
Adding cinnamon and brown sugar does the trick.
It’s best served fresh because slushies melt quickly. If you need to prep ahead, mix everything but the ice and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, blend with ice and serve.
For sure. If your cider is already sweet, you might not need much brown sugar. Taste before blending, then add more if you want it sweeter.
Yes, you will have to add ice to thicken the slush when using a regular blender. This will water down the drink, so you will have to adjust the cinnamon and brown sugar, and maybe how much cider you use.
Try rimming the glass with cinnamon sugar, adding a caramel drizzle, or garnishing with an apple slice and cinnamon stick. It instantly looks party-ready.
Yes, if you add liquor you will also need to add water and press the Spiked Slush button when operating the machine. You can add 2 cups of water and ¾ cup of alcohol.
More Ninja Slushi Recipes
Ninja Slushi Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade
Ninja Slushi Lemonade
Ninja Slushi Fruit Punch
Ninja Slushi Wendy's Frosty
Ninja Slushi Cherry Slush
Ninja Slushi Coffee Frappé (Vanilla Caramel)
Ninja Slushi Strawberry Lemonade Slush
Ninja Slushi Apple Cider Slush
Want to save this recipe for later?
I'll email it to you, so you can come back to it later! You will also get my FREE Thanksgiving menu, exactly what I'm cooking, plus my tips for making it a stress-free meal seasoned to perfection. Let me do the planning for you!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 cups apple cider
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar or sweetener
Instructions
- Pop your apple cider in the fridge so it’s nice and cold before you start. Cold liquid makes the machine process faster.
- Combine the cider, brown sugar or sweetener, and cinnamon. Stir and whisk to combine.
- Pour the apple cider into the drink reservoir.
- Place your cup under the spout, lock everything into place, and hit the slushi setting.
- Allow the machine to process. Let the machine run for 15-45 minutes, depending on the sugar content and temperature of the liquid. Mine took 20 minutes.
- Once the cycle is complete, place a cup under the self-serve spout and pull the handle to dispense the cider.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Seema says
Perfectly smooth. I never thought to add cinnamon! Taste better than just regular cider.
staysnatched says
I'm glad you enjoyed it.