Homemade Apple Cider
This Apple Cider with Spices recipe is a heartwarming elixir that captures the essence of the season, blending the natural sweetness of apples with a medley of warm spices.
Servings: 8 servings
Equipment
- Large Pot for simmering the cider and allowing the flavors to meld
- Cheesecloth to encase the spices and ensure easy removal
- Citrus zester for adding a burst of citrusy aroma with orange or lemon zest
Ingredients
- 8-10 medium apples mixed sweet and tart varieties
- 8 cups water
- 1 orange peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
Instructions
- Wash, core, and roughly chop the apples, leaving the peels on.
- In a large pot, combine apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the fruit and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it simmer for 1 hour.
- Gently mash softened apples, then strain through cheesecloth into another pot or bowl.
- Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange twist.
Notes
Substitutions:
- Use a pinch of nutmeg if star anise is unavailable.
- Swap honey or maple syrup with brown sugar.
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult twist.
- Enhance citrusy notes with lemon zest or juice.
- Pair with cinnamon rolls or warm apple pie.
- Simmer on low heat to avoid overcooking.
- Make a larger batch and refrigerate leftovers.
- Transfer cooled cider to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat; avoid freezing.