Description
This Homemade Apple Cider recipe transforms fresh apples and warm spices into a cozy, flavorful beverage perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings. Using simple ingredients like apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and allspice, this cider is simmered gently to extract a rich, comforting flavor without the need for any special equipment. Enjoy it hot for a soothing treat or chilled as a refreshing drink.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits
- 10 medium apples, quartered
Sweetener & Spices
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 4 sticks cinnamon, or 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash and quarter the medium apples, removing any stems and bruised parts. There’s no need to peel or core the apples, as the skins and cores add flavor during cooking.
- Combine ingredients: In a large stockpot, add the quartered apples along with the light brown sugar, cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon), and ground allspice. Stir to mix the sugar and spices evenly over the apple pieces.
- Add water: Pour in approximately 10 cups (2.4 liters) of water, covering the apples completely. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the cider: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, uncovered, for about 2 hours. Occasionally mash the apples with a potato masher or spoon during cooking to help release their juices and intensify the flavor.
- Strain the cider: Using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the cooked apple mixture into a large bowl or pitcher to remove solids. Press the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Sweeten and adjust flavors: Taste the strained cider and add additional brown sugar or spices if desired. Heat gently to dissolve any added sugar.
- Serve or store: Serve the apple cider hot with a cinnamon stick for garnish or chill and serve cold. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Using a mix of sweet and tart apples will add complexity to the cider’s flavor.
- For a spiced twist, consider adding cloves, star anise, or orange peel during cooking.
- The cider can be gently reheated on the stovetop; avoid boiling once strained to preserve delicate flavors.
- Non-alcoholic and kid-friendly, this cider makes a great alternative to sugary sodas.
Keywords: apple cider, homemade apple cider, spiced apple drink, autumn drinks, warm beverages