Hot Spiced Apple Cider Recipe Saving Room for Dessert from www.savingdessert.com
Introduction
Cider is a refreshing, delicious, and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to soda, cider is the perfect choice. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a classic homemade cider using fresh apples and a few simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, and it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
To make cider, you will need: - 12-15 medium-sized apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties) - 1 cinnamon stick - 1 teaspoon of allspice - 1 teaspoon of nutmeg - 1 teaspoon of cloves - 1/2 cup of brown sugar - 1 gallon of water - Cheesecloth or a fine strainer
Choosing the Apples
When choosing apples for cider, it is important to select a mix of sweet and tart varieties. This will help balance the flavor of the cider and give it a more complex taste. Some good sweet apple varieties to use include Gala, Honeycrisp, and Fuji. For tart apples, Granny Smith, Jonathan, and Braeburn are great choices. Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties to find the perfect blend for your taste buds.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, let's get started on making your homemade cider. Step 1: Wash and chop the apples Start by washing and chopping the apples into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added flavor and nutrition. Step 2: Boil the water In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Step 3: Add the apples and spices Once the water is boiling, add the chopped apples, cinnamon stick, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Step 4: Simmer the mixture Reduce the heat to low and let the cider mixture simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer the mixture, the stronger and more flavorful the cider will be. Step 5: Strain the mixture Once the cider has simmered, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine strainer to remove the apple pieces and spices. Step 6: Chill and serve Transfer the cider to a large pitcher or individual glasses and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Serve cold and enjoy!
Nutrition
Cider is a healthy and refreshing drink that is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One cup of homemade cider contains approximately: - 120 calories - 0 grams of fat - 30 grams of carbohydrates - 25 grams of sugar - 1 gram of protein Cider is also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Making homemade cider is easy, fun, and delicious. By using fresh apples and a few simple ingredients, you can create a refreshing and healthy drink that everyone will love. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the taste of fall all year round?
