Homemade Hot Apple Cider: A Cozy Classic
This Homemade Hot Apple Cider is easy to make, cozy, and perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings in.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot For simmering the cider and holding all the ingredients.
- 1 Cutting board For chopping the apples and slicing the orange.
- 1 Sharp knife To core and quarter the apples and slice the orange.
- 1 Wooden spoon or ladle For stirring the cider occasionally as it simmers.
- 1 Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth To strain out solids after cooking.
- 1 Large heatproof bowl or pitcher To hold the cider after straining.
- Mugs or heatproof cups For serving the hot cider.
Ingredients
- 8-10 Apples 8-10 medium, a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith for a balanced flavor
- 2-3 Cinnamon sticks
- 5-6 Whole cloves
- Star anise optional, for an extra layer of flavor
- 1 Orange sliced, optional for a citrusy twist
- ¼ to ½ cup Sweetener brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup, adjusted to taste
- Water enough to cover the apples in the pot
Instructions
Prepare the Apples
- Core and quarter the apples. No need to peel them, as the skins add flavor and color to the cider.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot
- Place the apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices (if using) in a large pot. Add enough water to cover everything by about an inch.
Simmer and Sweeten
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally and gently mashing the apples with a spoon to release their juices.
Strain and Sweeten
- Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the cider into a heatproof bowl or pitcher, pressing the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Add sweetener to taste and stir well.
Serve and Enjoy
- Pour the cider into mugs, garnish with a cinnamon stick or an apple slice, and serve warm. Enjoy the cozy taste of fall in every sip!
Notes
Nutrition Information (per 8 oz serving, makes 6-8 servings)
- Calories: ~120 (may vary depending on sweetener amount)
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 6% of daily value
- Iron: 1% of daily value
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Use a Blend of Apples
- Mixing sweet and tart apples gives the cider a more complex flavor. Try Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith for a balanced blend.
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Add Flavor Boosters
- For a bit of kick, add a slice of fresh ginger or a few allspice berries. For deeper sweetness, try a drizzle of molasses.
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Sweetener Adjustments
- Taste the cider before adding sweetener, as apples can vary in sweetness. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
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Make It in a Slow Cooker
- For an easy alternative, put all ingredients in a slow cooker, set it on low, and let it simmer for 4-6 hours. This hands-off method is perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
FAQs
Q: Can I store leftover apple cider?Yes! Leftover cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Q: Can I make this recipe in larger batches?
Absolutely! Just double or triple the ingredients, but keep an eye on the water level so the cider doesn’t get too diluted.
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Tips for the Perfect Cider
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcal
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