Apple cider is the quintessential drink for fall, offering a warm, comforting experience with every sip. This fragrant, spiced beverage evokes images of cozy afternoons, falling leaves, and crisp autumn air. Whether served hot or cold, apple cider is a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It’s a drink that not only satisfies your taste buds but also creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia with its sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
The magic of apple cider lies in its simplicity. Freshly pressed apple juice, with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, creates a beverage that is both sweet and aromatic. For a warm version, the cider is gently heated, allowing the spices to infuse and create a soothing, spiced drink. The rich flavors of apple and spice are perfect for sipping as the weather cools, making it an ideal companion for chilly days, holiday celebrations, or family gatherings.
If you prefer a chilled version, apple cider can be served over ice, offering a refreshing and slightly tart option for those warm autumn days. You can even make it into a festive cocktail by adding a splash of rum or bourbon, transforming it into a spiked treat for adult gatherings. For those who enjoy a bit of extra sweetness, a drizzle of honey or a slice of orange can be added to enhance the flavor and balance the natural tartness of the apples.
This cider is also a versatile base for other recipes, from apple cider donuts to marinades for meats. The possibilities are endless, but nothing quite beats enjoying a steaming mug on a crisp fall day, watching the leaves turn colors, and the world slow down for a moment. Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving it at a gathering, apple cider is the drink that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.
Ingredients
- 10 apples medium, quartered, any variety
- 1 orange whole, quartered
- 5 sticks cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cloves whole
- 1 star anise whole, optional
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or to taste
- 16 cups water
Instructions
- Place apples, orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a large pot. Add the water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours, or until the apples are soft.
- Mash the mixture using a potato masher or wooden spoon to release the flavors.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot, discarding solids.
- Add brown sugar to the strained cider and stir to dissolve. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, then serve hot.
Nutrition
This is the best apple cider I’ve ever made! So much flavor! 😍
I tried this recipe last week and agree! It turned out so delicious! I didn’t even think it would be this good! 😄
Sounds good, but do you think 5 sticks of cinnamon is too much? Seems like it could be overwhelming. 😕
Perfect for the fall! Smells amazing while it’s cooking.
The star anise really made it special! 🌟 I never would’ve thought!
I tried this recipe, but it turned out way too sweet for my taste.
I get that! Maybe try reducing the sugar next time? You can always add a little honey if you want some sweetness.
Really easy to follow and delicious! Made it for my family and they loved it!
I used white sugar instead and it was fine. Good recipe.
How can it take 2 hours? Isn’t that too long? Can’t we speed it up?
2 hours is what it takes to get all the flavors out of the apples and spices! Trust me, it’s worth it.
Seems like a long time for just juice though. Can’t you just blend it for quicker results?
Just two words: YUMMYYYYY!!!
Isn’t it kinda weird to put an orange in cider? Seems off. 🤔
I just don’t get why people like this. It’s just hot fruit juice.. meh.