Go Back
manson jar of homemade apple cider simmering with cinnamon sticks and orange wheel

Homemade Apple Cider

A warm, spiced apple cider simmered from whole apples, cinnamon, and citrus.Ready in under an hour.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Beverages, Cocktails, Condiments, Desserts, Main Course, Side Dishes, Soups
Cuisine: American, British, French, Seasonal / Fall
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 medium apples mix of sweet and tart, roughly chopped
  • 1 orange sliced
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves
  • 1 tbsp whole allspice berries
  • 1 piece fresh ginger sliced
  • ΒΌ cup brown sugar optional
  • 10 cups water
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Method
 

  1. Combine apples, orange slices, spices, and ginger in a stockpot. Cover with water.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 30 minutes, until apples soften.
  3. Mash the softened apples directly in the pot, then simmer another 15 minutes.
  4. Taste and stir in brown sugar if desired. Let rest 10 minutes off heat.
  5. Strain through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth, pressing gently on solids.
  6. Stir in fresh orange juice. Serve warm or chill for later.

Notes

Storage note: Refrigerate up to 5 days; freezes well for up to 3 months.
Notes: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best balance; mashing is key for body and flavor.