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Apple Cider

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This cozy homemade apple cider is simmered with fresh apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices for a comforting, aromatic fall drink. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 medium fresh apples (about 3 lbs), any variety, cored and quartered
  • 8 cups water
  • 3–4 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 6–8 whole cloves
  • 1 large orange, sliced (peel on)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4–5 whole allspice berries (or 1/4 tsp ground allspice, optional)
  • Optional sweeteners: maple syrup, honey, or agave (swap for brown sugar if desired)
  • Optional garnishes: extra cinnamon sticks, apple slices, orange slices, star anise

Instructions

  1. Wash and scrub apples under cold water. Core and slice into quarters (peeling optional).
  2. Slice the orange into rounds, leaving the peel on.
  3. Place apples and orange slices in a large stockpot. Add water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and brown sugar. Stir gently.
  4. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
  5. Simmer covered for 25 minutes, occasionally mashing apples with a wooden spoon against the side of the pot.
  6. Taste the cider. Adjust sweetness or spice as desired by adding more sugar or cinnamon.
  7. Remove from heat. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or towel-lined colander into a large bowl, pressing solids to extract liquid.
  8. Pour strained cider into mugs. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, apple slices, or orange rounds.
  9. To keep warm for serving, return cider to the pot and keep on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor. Simmer gently, not boil, to avoid bitterness. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed. For a clear cider, double strain through cheesecloth. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. Can be made in a slow cooker (4-6 hours on low).

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, homemade cider, fall drink, autumn beverage, cinnamon, cloves, orange, gluten-free, vegan, easy apple cider, stovetop cider, holiday drink

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/apple-cider/