Homemade Apple Cider Recipe

A simple, naturally sweetened homemade apple cider made with fresh apples and warm spices, simmered low and slow for rich, cozy flavor. Perfect served warm or chilled. Prep Time: 15 minutes

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Prep Time 32

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 13

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Ingredients

10 large apples 5 Gala and 5 Honeycrisp recommended
16 cups water
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground allspice
6 cinnamon sticks

Instructions

Quarter the apples and remove the cores. Place the apple pieces in a large stockpot and add the water.
Stir in the sugar, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, and cinnamon sticks.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, cover with a lid, and continue simmering for 2 hours.
Stir well, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids. For a smoother cider, line the sieve with cheesecloth and strain a second time.
Serve warm, or refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving cold.

Notes

For the best flavor balance, use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties. This cider can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Taste after straining and adjust sugar as needed, since natural apple sweetness can vary.
Nutrition: Not specified in original recipe