Easy Apple Cider Recipe | No Added Sugar
This Homemade apple cider recipe is an easy-to-make drink with health benefits and delightful flavors. With a simple process and the ability to choose your ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious beverage. I’m excited to share a simple yet delightful homemade apple cider recipe that will not only warm your heart but also impress your friends and family, all without any added sugar.
Ingredients
- 4 Pounds Apples 8-10 medium-sized apples. A mix of sweet and tart or assorted variety
- 1 Orange Large
- 4 Cinnamon Sticks Or 3 ½ to 4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1 Tablespoon Whole Cloves
- 10 cups Water 1 cup equals approx 240 ml
Optional
- 2 Tablespoons Honey optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples and Orange: I used our apple slicer which cored and sliced them easily. There's no need to peel apples, as they will be strained out later. Slice the orange into rounds.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and whole cloves. Add 10 to 11 cups of water, ensuring the fruit is well-covered.
- Simmer and Mash: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 2 hours. Now lean over and take a moment to indulge in the wonderful smell. Occasionally stir and mash the apples with a spoon to release their juices.
- Strain the Mixture: After 2 hours, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Strain your cider through a fine mesh colander or a nut milk food strainer bag. I found that a strainer bag outperformed a regular strainer or cheesecloth, making it easy to squeeze as much juice as possible and discard the fruit pulp and spices.
- Serve and Enjoy: You'll notice the juice taking on an amber hue when it's done. Your homemade apple cider is now ready to enjoy! It should ideally have a balanced taste of sweetness and spice. However, if you prefer a sweeter edge, feel free to add more honey. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Notes
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store your cider in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Reheat the cider on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The flavors may intensify after sitting, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition
Calories: 79kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 0.5gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.03gTrans Fat: 0.001gSodium: 15mgPotassium: 130mgFiber: 3gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 132IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.4mg
Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information is an estimate and may change based on products used.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!