Why Make This Recipe

Making your own homemade apple cider is honestly one of life’s simple pleasures. 🥰 You get to control all the ingredients, skip the preservatives, and bring those cozy fall vibes right into your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those bushels of apples you picked—or, you know, just bought because they looked pretty at the grocery store.

Not to mention how satisfying it feels to create something delicious from scratch. Who needs an overpriced coffee shop when you can sip on a warm mug of homemade goodness while wearing your fuzzy socks at home? 😌

How to Make Homemade Apple Cider

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting your own apple cider. It’s easier than you think, and your taste buds will absolutely thank you later. Just grab some apples, and you’re halfway there.

Gather your ingredients. You probably have them all in your kitchen already, so no worries about breaking the bank.
Prep your apples and oranges. No need to peel them; just quarter them and toss them in the pot.
Simmer it down. You’ll let it bubble away like a cozy potion for a couple of hours.
Strain and serve. Get rid of the solids for that smooth, sippable goodness.

Ingredients

6-8 apples, quartered
1 orange, quartered
1 cup sugar (optional, but hey, we’re living our best lives here)
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon allspice
10 cups water
1/2 lemon (optional, juiced)

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the quartered apples, orange, sugar (if using), cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours, mashing the apples with a potato masher occasionally to release their juices.
After 2 hours, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another pot or pitcher to remove solids.
Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired, or allow to cool and refrigerate.

How to Serve Homemade Apple Cider

Serve that homemade cider hot or cold—your choice! ☕✨ It pairs perfectly with a cinnamon stick (fancy, right?) or even a splash of bourbon if you’re feeling adventurous. Just imagine curling up with a blanket, a good movie, and a mug of your homemade brew—it doesn’t get better than that!

How to Store Homemade Apple Cider

If you manage to have any cider left (well done, you!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last about a week. Just give it a quick stir before you pour because, you know, gravity and all that fun science stuff.

Tips to Make Homemade Apple Cider

Use a mix of apples. Sweet and tart apples together create a flavor explosion. Try combining Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala for magic in a pot!
Adjust sweetness to taste. Start with less sugar and add more if it’s not sweet enough for your sweet tooth.
Get creative. Add a few slices of ginger or a dash of nutmeg for a twist.
Test the spices. Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak—after all, you’re the cider magician here!

Variation

Feeling extra creative? Consider adding spices like vanilla or even a bit of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist! You might just invent the next big thing in cider. 🍏🎃

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apples for this cider?
Absolutely! Different apple varieties add unique flavors, so feel free to experiment.

2. Is it okay to leave out the sugar?
Totally! The natural sweetness of apples and oranges might be enough for you, so don’t feel pressured.

3. Can I make a larger batch and can it?
You can! Just make sure to follow safe canning practices if you’re keeping it longer term. Ask Google for the canning how-tos, and you’ll be a pro in no time!

So, roll up those sleeves and get simmering! Homemade apple cider is just waiting for you. 🍂🥤