Apple Cider Recipes For Any Occasion

It’s that time of year again.  The leaves are turning colors and falling, the temperature is dropping and the last of the harvests are being done.  Fall has arrived.  In the old tradition, it is time to relax, enjoy a cup of apple cider and plan for next year.  Don’t have grandma’s apple cider recipe?  No worry, here are 3 great recipes for apple cider.

There are several different varieties of apples, it truly depends on your tastes as to which to select.  I prefer to start with a tart apple such as a Granny Smith or Gala, however, red and green delicious work well too.  If you choose the delicious variety, you may need to adjust the sugar to your tastes.

Mom’s Homemade Apple Cider

Sometimes it’s fun to make something completely from scratch and apple cider is one of the easiest to do.  This simple recipe is a great place to start and is sure to please everyone.

Makes 1 Gallon:

• 10 apples, cored and quartered
• ¾ cup regular granulated sugar
• 1 Tablespoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 Tablespoon of ground allspice

Place the quartered apples into a large stockpot and enough water to cover by at least 2 inches.  Stir in the sugar, cinnamon and allspice and bring to a boil.  Boil uncovered for 1 hour.  Reduce heat, cover and simmer for another 2 hours. Strain through a fine mesh strainer or sieve, pushing liquid through.  Throw away the apple solids.  Place a cheese cloth in the strainer or sieve and strain again.  Place in covered container and place in refrigerator until cold.

Hot Apple Cider

This is a great choice for any party or get together.  Keeping it warm in a slow cooker means that guests can enjoy it through the night.

• 64oz (1/2 gallon) bottled or homemade apple cider
• 3 cinnamon sticks, whole
• 1tsp cloves
• 1tsp allspice
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 small piece of cheese cloth

In a large slow cooker, combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks.  Wrap the cloves and allspice in the piece of cheese cloth and add to the slow cooker.  Stir in brown sugar and bring to a boil on high setting.  Reduce heat and serve.