Apple Cider

Homemade apple cider is a simple, comforting drink that fills your home with the warm scent of autumn. Made with fresh apples, warming spices, and a touch of sweetener, it’s a seasonal favorite that’s perfect for gatherings, cold days, or simply relaxing at home. Unlike store-bought versions, this apple cider has no preservatives and can be customized to your taste.

It’s ideal for fall holidays, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinners, or cozy evenings by the fire. Serve it warm for comfort or chilled for a refreshing twist.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition (Per 1-cup serving)

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Sugar: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 0 g
Fat: 0 g

Why Make This Recipe

Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients
Naturally sweet and full of flavor
Fills your kitchen with a warm, spiced aroma
Can be served hot or cold
Great for gatherings or storing for later

How to Make Apple Cider

Ingredients

10 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart, such as Fuji and Granny Smith), quartered
1 orange, halved (optional, for added citrus flavor)
3 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1 tablespoon whole allspice
1-inch piece of fresh ginger (optional)
8 cups water (or enough to cover the fruit)
1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup, to taste

Optional Substitutions:

Use honey or agave instead of brown sugar
Add star anise for extra spice
Use apple juice instead of water for a stronger apple flavor

Instructions

Wash the apples and orange thoroughly. Cut them into quarters (no need to peel or core).
Place the fruit in a large pot. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and ginger if using.
Add water until the fruit is just covered. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours.
After 2 hours, use a potato masher or wooden spoon to mash the softened fruit to release more flavor. Simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes.
Strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.
Taste the cider and stir in brown sugar or maple syrup as desired.
Serve warm or let it cool and refrigerate for later.

How to Serve

Serve warm in mugs with a cinnamon stick or slice of orange
Chill and serve over ice for a refreshing drink
Great with a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult version
Use as a base for holiday punch

How to Store

Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 7 days
Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave

Expert Tips

Use a mix of apple types for balanced flavor
Don’t skip the mashing step; it enhances the taste
Adjust sweetness to your preference after straining
For clearer cider, strain twice through cheesecloth

Variations

Spiced Cranberry Apple Cider: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
Caramel Apple Cider: Stir in 2 tablespoons caramel sauce after straining
Herbal Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme while simmering for a savory note
Sparkling Apple Cider: Mix cooled cider with sparkling water before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make apple cider in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, then mash and strain.

Can I use apple scraps?

Yes. You can use peels and cores if you have them. It’s a great way to reduce waste.

Why is my cider cloudy?

Homemade cider is naturally cloudy. For a clearer drink, strain it twice or use a coffee filter.

Can I sweeten it without sugar?

Yes. Use maple syrup, honey, or leave it unsweetened if your apples are sweet enough.

What apples are best?

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith.

Conclusion

Homemade apple cider is an easy, delicious way to celebrate the season. It’s naturally sweet, customizable, and makes your home smell amazing. Whether you serve it hot or cold, plain or spiked, it’s sure to become a fall favorite. Try it once, and you’ll come back to it every year.

Let me know if you’d like a slow cooker version, small-batch option, or translation.