Why Make This Recipe
Homemade apple cider is a delicious treat that warms your heart and lifts your spirits. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying on a chilly day. Making your own cider allows you to control the sweetness and add your favorite spices. Plus, it fills your home with a wonderful aroma that brings everyone together.
How to Make Homemade Apple Cider
Ingredients:
- 8 apples, skin on
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- pinch of salt
Directions:
- Start by adding the apples and water to a high-speed blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth. You may need to do this in batches if your blender is small.
- Next, take a piece of cheesecloth or a clean, light towel and lay it over a large bowl. Pour the blended apple mixture over the cloth. Gather the corners of the cloth and squeeze it tightly to extract as much juice as possible. The cloth will catch the apple pulp.
- Pour the fresh apple juice into a large pot. Then, add the sugar, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, allspice, and a pinch of salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- After simmering, allow the mixture to cool slightly before serving. You can garnish each serving with cinnamon sticks for an extra touch.
How to Serve Homemade Apple Cider
Homemade apple cider is best served warm. You can pour it into mugs and add a cinnamon stick for garnish. This makes it extra festive and inviting. It’s great to enjoy on its own or alongside your favorite snacks, like cookies or popcorn.
How to Store Homemade Apple Cider
If you have leftovers, you can store your homemade apple cider in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. The cider should be consumed within one week for the best flavor. You can also reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Homemade Apple Cider
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Experiment with spices. You can add cloves or nutmeg for different tastes.
- Make sure to squeeze the cloth well to get all the juice out.
- If you prefer a clearer cider, you can strain it again through a fine mesh strainer.
Variation
You can make spiced apple cider by adding a few extra spices, like cloves or ginger. Consider using pear or other fruits along with the apples for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple juice instead of fresh apples?
Yes, you can use store-bought apple juice, but the flavor may not be as rich and fresh as using whole apples.
Is homemade apple cider safe to drink?
Yes, as long as the cider is made with clean equipment and the juice is cooked properly, it is safe to drink.
Can I freeze homemade apple cider?
Yes, you can freeze homemade apple cider. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
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