Spicy Fall Apple Cider Recipe

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a steaming cup of spicy fall apple cider to warm you up. This beloved seasonal beverage is a favorite for many, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and spice that captures the essence of autumn. 

Why do we Love Spicy Fall Apple Cider? Spicy fall apple cider is loved for its comforting warmth and delicious flavor profile. The combination of sweet apple cider with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a cozy and inviting drink that is perfect for chilly fall days.

Choosing the perfect apples

When making apple cider, it's important to choose the right type of apples. Look for a mix of sweet and tart apples to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Some popular apple varieties for cider making include Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith.

Before starting the cider-making process, make sure to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Once clean, peel and then chop the apples into small pieces, making sure to remove the cores and seeds.

Simmer the Apples

Place the chopped apples in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat and let the apples cook until they are soft and mushy. This process helps extract the flavors from the apples.

Add Spices (Optional)

If you like your apple cider spiced, this is the time to add your favorite spices. Popular choices include vanilla, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Let the spices simmer in the apple juice for an extra depth of flavor.

Strain the Mixture

Once the apples are fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the mixture, separating the liquid (apple juice) from the solids (apple pulp).

Enjoy Your Homemade Apple Cider

Once you've strained the mixture and added any desired spices, your homemade apple cider is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm for a comforting drink on a chilly day, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing beverage. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon of whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar (optional) -Me, I love the sweet ciders 

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and orange slices.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. If desired, stir in brown sugar to sweeten the cider.
4. Strain the cider to remove the spices and orange slices.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy fall flavors!

Equipment Needed:

To make spicy fall apple cider, you will need a large pot, a stirring spoon, a strainer, and mugs for serving.

Storage:

Leftover spicy fall apple cider can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Summary:

Spicy fall apple cider is a beloved seasonal beverage that captures the essence of autumn with its warm and comforting flavors. By using a mix of sweet and tart apples, along with aromatic spices, you can create a delicious drink that is perfect for cozying up on chilly fall days. Whether enjoyed alone or with friends and family, spicy fall apple cider is sure to become a favorite tradition during the autumn season.

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