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Homemade Apple Cider

A glass mug of steaming homemade apple cider with cinnamon sticks and fresh apples.
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A simple recipe for warm, spiced apple cider perfect for fall. Make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or Instant Pot.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups water
  • 6–8 apples, cored and quartered (a mix of sweet and tart like Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith works best)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • Optional: 1/4 cup maple syrup or brown sugar, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine water, apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice in a large pot or slow cooker.
  2. If using a stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, until apples are very soft and flavors have melded.
  3. If using a slow cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until apples are very soft.
  4. If using an Instant Pot: Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
  5. Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (if desired for a clearer cider) into another pot or heatproof container. Discard the solids.
  6. Taste and stir in sweetener if desired.
  7. Serve warm. For safety, ensure cider reaches 160°F (71°C) if serving to children or those with weakened immune systems.

Notes

  • For a clearer cider, strain through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth.
  • Adjust spices to your preference.
  • Sweeten to your liking with maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey.
  • Store leftover cider in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/homemade-apple-cider/