Homemade Apple Cider

Ingredients:

• 10-12 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart, such as Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp)

• 1 orange (optional, for a citrusy note)

• 3-4 cinnamon sticks

• 1 tablespoon whole cloves

• 1 tablespoon allspice berries (optional)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

• Water (enough to cover the fruit in the pot)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Wash the apples and orange thoroughly. Quarter the apples (no need to peel or core them).

   • Slice the orange into rounds (optional).

2. Cook the Fruit:

   • Place the apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries in a large pot.

   • Add enough water to cover the fruit by about 1 inch.

3. Simmer:

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

4. Mash and Strain:

   • Use a potato masher to mash the fruit and release more flavor. Let it simmer for another 30 minutes.

   • Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or nut milk bag into a large bowl or pot, pressing down to extract all the liquid.

5. Sweeten:

   • Stir in the brown sugar while the cider is still warm. Adjust sweetness to taste.

6. Serve:

   • Serve hot for a cozy treat, or chill and enjoy cold. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice if desired.

Tips:

• Store any leftover cider in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for later use.

• For a spiced kick, add a splash of rum or whiskey when serving (optional for adults).

Enjoy your homemade apple cider! 😊