An iconic taste of fall, homemade apple cider is the coziest gift of this brief season. Warm, perfectly spiced, fragrant and utterly delicious, making a batch of this apple cider recipe will be the best way to celebrate all things autumn!
Place apple halves and orange slices in large stockpot and add water over medium high heat. Add sugar and spices.
Bring to a boil uncovered for 1 hour.
Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer 2 hours.
Mash using a potato masher or back of a wooden spoon to release the juices and flavors.
Strain mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth discarding any solids.
Notes
In a Slow Cooker
Place apple halves and orange slices in crockpot and add water. Add sugar and spices.
Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer 6-7 hours or high for 3 hours.
Mash using a potato masher or back of a wooden spoon to release the juices and flavors.
Strain mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth discarding any solids.
Tips and Variations
Leave orange peels on for more of a tart flavor to your apple cider.
Because apples are already quite sweet, you can easily use less sugar in this recipe.
Press the ingredients against your sieve or strainer to release all the extra juices.
To Store
At Room Temperature - It's best served the day that you make it fresh, and then refrigerated any remaining cider.
Refrigerate - Homemade apple cider will stay fresh for about 7-10 days if it's refrigerated.
Freeze - Store your apple cider in an airtight container, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space at the top, as fresh apple cider will expand as it freezes. Best used within 6 months.