Name: Easy Homemade Apple Cider
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10–12 fresh apples (mix of sweet and tart, like Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith), roughly chopped; 1 orange, sliced (with peel on); 3–4 cinnamon sticks; 1 tablespoon whole cloves; 1 tablespoon whole allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 10–12 cups water (enough to cover fruit); 1/4–1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple cider is incredibly simple to make and so much more flavorful than store-bought versions. You can customize the sweetness and spices to your liking, and it’s great served warm or chilled. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just curling up on the couch, this cider is a feel-good favorite that brings people together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith)
Orange (sliced with peel on)
Cinnamon sticks
Whole cloves
Whole allspice
Nutmeg
Brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, to sweeten)
Water

Directions

Wash and roughly chop the apples and orange—no need to peel or core them.
Place the fruit in a large pot. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Fill the pot with water, enough to fully cover the fruit (about 10–12 cups).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1.5 to 2 hours.
After simmering, mash the fruit with a potato masher or spoon to release even more flavor.
Simmer for another 30 minutes uncovered.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or container, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.
Taste the cider and stir in brown sugar or maple syrup if desired.
Serve hot or let cool and refrigerate.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 to 10 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Cranberry twist: Add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries to the pot for a tart note and deep red color.
Ginger infusion: Add fresh ginger slices for a spicy kick.
Slow cooker method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Sweeter cider: Use more sweet apples and increase the sweetener to taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave individual portions.
You can freeze apple cider once it’s completely cooled. Store in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

FAQs

What apples are best for homemade cider?

A mix of sweet and tart apples—like Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith—creates a balanced and flavorful cider.

Do I need to peel or core the apples?

No, just wash and chop them. The skins and cores help add flavor and are strained out at the end.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole?

Yes, but whole spices are preferred for a clearer cider. If using ground, strain carefully through cheesecloth to avoid grittiness.

How can I make it sweeter?

Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey to taste after straining the cider.

Can I use bottled apple juice instead?

This recipe is for making cider from scratch, but you can simmer bottled apple juice with spices for a shortcut version.

Can I leave it simmering while I’m away?

A slow cooker is a great option for unattended simmering. Use low heat for 6–8 hours.

What can I serve with apple cider?

Cider pairs well with fall desserts like apple pie, donuts, cookies, or cinnamon rolls.

Can I chill the cider and serve it cold?

Absolutely. Chill after straining and enjoy it over ice for a refreshing take.

How long does it keep?

Refrigerated cider lasts up to 1 week. Frozen cider can be stored for up to 3 months.

Is this cider gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all added ingredients (like sweeteners) are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Easy homemade apple cider is a classic seasonal drink that’s rich in flavor and simple to prepare. With a combination of fresh fruit and warming spices, it’s a heartwarming beverage that’s perfect for sipping all autumn and winter long. Make a big batch, enjoy the aroma, and savor each cozy cup.