why make this recipe
Making homemade apple cider is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It fills your home with a warm and inviting aroma, bringing a touch of autumn into your kitchen. This recipe is simple and gives you the chance to customize the sweetness and spices to suit your taste. Plus, there’s something special about sipping a drink you made yourself!
how to make Homemade Apple Cider
Ingredients:
- 12 apples (cored, I like Sunrise or Honeycrisp apples in this recipe)
- 14 cups water
- 5 cinnamon sticks
- 6 cloves (whole)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions:
- Core all the apples and cut them into quarters.
- Add the apple pieces to a large pot along with the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg.
- Fill the pot with water, making sure the apples are floating. If they’re not, add more water until they are at least 2 inches above the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and let it boil uncovered for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- After this time, cover the pot, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let it cook for an additional 2 hours.
- The apple cider will turn a lovely golden brown and will taste like real apple cider.
- Pour the contents of the pot into a strainer lined with two layers of cheesecloth set over a large bowl (or another pot). Let it drain until all the liquid has been collected. You can save the leftover apple pulp for baking as a substitute for applesauce—just make sure to remove the spices.
- Transfer the apple cider to sterilized jars or a pitcher. Enjoy it hot or cold!
how to serve Homemade Apple Cider
Homemade apple cider is delicious on its own! You can serve it warm in mugs with a cinnamon stick for decoration. For a cold version, chill the cider in the refrigerator and serve it over ice. Adding a slice of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can make it look even more appealing.
how to store Homemade Apple Cider
To store your homemade apple cider, keep it in sterilized jars or airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
tips to make Homemade Apple Cider
- Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a well-rounded flavor.
- Adjust the amount of spices based on your personal preference.
- If you want a stronger flavor, let the cider simmer for a bit longer.
- Make sure to use fresh spices for the best taste.
variation
You can customize your apple cider by adding other spices, such as allspice or ginger. Some people also like to add a bit of orange zest or vanilla for extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of bourbon or rum can add a fun twist for adult gatherings!
FAQs
Can I use any kind of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any kind of apple, but sweeter varieties like Sunrise or Honeycrisp work well for a better flavor.
How long will the cider last in the fridge?
Homemade apple cider will last about a week if stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze leftover apple cider?
Yes, you can freeze apple cider! Just make sure to leave some space in the container for the liquid to expand. It can be stored for several months in the freezer.
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