Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When the leaves start changing colors and there’s a chill in the air, nothing satisfies quite like homemade apple cider. This recipe transforms ordinary moments into cozy memories with its rich flavor and comforting warmth. What makes this version special is its simplicity—just 20 minutes from start to finish—and the authentic taste that store-bought versions simply can’t match. The natural sweetness from fresh apples combined with pure maple syrup creates a perfect balance that both adults and children will love. Plus, your home will smell absolutely heavenly while it simmers!
Easy Homemade Apple Cider Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 medium apples (mix of sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith)
- 1 orange, quartered
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1 whole nutmeg, cracked (or 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg)
- 2-3 star anise pods
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 12 cups water
- Optional citrus twist: 1 lemon, quartered
- Optional: 1 pear for subtle pear cider flavor
How to Make Homemade Apple Cider
Prepare the fruit: Wash the apples and orange thoroughly. Quarter the apples (no need to remove cores or seeds) and add them to a large stockpot along with the orange pieces. If using pear for an apple pear variation, quarter it and add it as well.
Add spices and water: Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and star anise to the pot. Pour in the water until it just covers the fruit. Add the maple syrup and stir gently.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the flavor of your spiced apples will be.
Mash and strain: Using a potato masher, gently mash the softened fruit to release more flavor. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Strain and serve: Remove from heat and strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot or bowl, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this homemade apple cider warm in mugs garnished with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple or orange. For a special presentation, rim the glasses with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This cider pairs wonderfully with apple crumble or rhubarb and apple crumble for a complete fall dessert experience. For morning gatherings, serve alongside breakfast pastries or pancakes drizzled with the same pure maple syrup used in the cider.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store cooled apple cider in airtight containers or glass bottles in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Pour cooled cider into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling. This preserves the delicate flavor balance of your homemade cider.
Helpful Tips
Apple variety matters: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala provide sweetness, while Granny Smith or Braeburn add tartness.
Spice adjustment: For a more pronounced spice flavor, lightly crush the whole spices before adding them to release more of their essential oils.
Natural sweeteners: Pure maple syrup adds depth that regular sugar can’t match. Adjust the amount based on how sweet your apples naturally are.
Citrus twist: The orange adds brightness to the cider, but don’t hesitate to include lemon for an additional citrus twist that balances the sweetness.
Recipe Variations
Pear Apple Cider: Substitute 3-4 of the apples with ripe pears for a subtle pear cider variation with delightful floral notes.
Extra Spicy: Double the cinnamon and add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh ginger for a more warming, spicy version.
Reduced Sugar: Eliminate the maple syrup and use more naturally sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a less sweet version.
Caramel Apple Cider: After straining, add 2-3 tablespoons of caramel sauce and stir until dissolved for a decadent dessert-like drink.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slower cooking creates an even richer flavor.
Is this apple cider alcoholic?
No, this is a non-alcoholic apple cider recipe. It’s family-friendly and perfect for all ages.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole?
Yes, though whole spices provide better flavor. If using ground spices, use 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon cloves, 1/4 teaspoon allspice, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
How can I make it more flavorful?
For more intense flavor, allow the cider to simmer longer (up to 45 minutes). You can also add a vanilla bean split lengthwise or 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract after straining.
Conclusion
This homemade apple cider recipe transforms simple ingredients into a signature fall beverage that warms both body and soul. The beauty of making it yourself is that you control the sweetness, spice level, and fruit combinations. It’s not just a drink—it’s a seasonal tradition that fills your home with the scents of autumn and creates memorable moments with loved ones. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with pear additions or a citrus twist, this 20-minute recipe will become your go-to comfort drink when the temperatures drop.
Looking for more seasonal recipes to complement your homemade cider? Check out my Pinterest page for beautiful fall desserts including the perfect apple crumble to pair with your freshly made cider!