Homemade Apple Cider

The beauty of apple cider is that it can be served hot or poured over ice; either way it’s delicious full of autumn flavour and on brisk cool days served hot it warms the soul! Add a splash of your favourite 'spirit' for extra warmth on a chilly day!

INGREDIENTS

 10 to 12 apples (pick sweet and tart to balance the flavour)

1 naval orange (optional)

1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)

2 cinnamon sticks or 1 tsp ground cinnamon

2 cloves snapped in half or ½ tsp all spice is a good alternative

Water to cover the apples giving them at least an inch or two of head space

DIRECTIONS

 Wash and core about 10 to 12 apples and chop into approximately 1 inch squares.  One naval orange can be cubed for enhanced flavour.  Combine all ingredients into a stock pot and pour in water; adding enough water so that the apple pieces float comfortably in the water. Over medium heat boil uncovered for an hour and then reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cover with lid and let simmer for about 1 ½ hours.  Line a sieve with cheese cloth; you may want to double the cheese cloth layer to insure all the little particles are removed from the cider.  We double strain it to insure we’re getting clear cider. Pour into a pitcher, cool and refrigerate for up to a week; that is if it lasts that long.  Server over ice with a cinnamon stick or warm over low heat and serve is a warm mug; the choice is yours ~ enjoy!

Check out our step by step pictorial guide below!