Can I Use Just One Type of Apple?

Yes, but it may limit the depth of flavor. A blend of sweet and tart apples gives the best result, but in a pinch, even plain Gala or Fuji can make a decent batch.

How Long Does Homemade Apple Cider Last?

Stored in an airtight container, homemade cider lasts up to 5 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to cool it fully before refrigerating.

Can I Make This Recipe Without Added Sweeteners?

Absolutely. The natural sugars from apples and oranges are often enough. If you want a sugar-free version, skip the sweetener and taste after straining—add if needed.

What’s the Best Way to Strain Cider Without a Cheesecloth?

If you don’t have cheesecloth, use a fine-mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel. Just be sure to press the solids to extract every drop of juice.

Homemade Apple Cider Recipe – The Best Cozy Fall Drink 2025

Name: Homemade Apple Cider
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10–12 medium apples (mixed sweet and tart varieties), quartered; 2 oranges, quartered (peeled optional); 4 cinnamon sticks; 1 tablespoon whole cloves; 1 teaspoon whole allspice (optional); 1 whole nutmeg (optional); 1 inch fresh ginger (optional); 16 cups water; 1/2 cup sweetener (brown sugar or maple syrup, to taste)

Homemade Apple Cider

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A warm and comforting homemade apple cider recipe made from fresh apples, oranges, and spices. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, in a Crock-Pot, or an Instant Pot, this cozy drink is perfect for chilly days and holiday gatherings.

Author: Catherine
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 10–12 servings
Category: Beverages
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

10–12 medium apples (mixed sweet and tart varieties), quartered
2 oranges, quartered (peeled optional)
4 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice (optional)
1 whole nutmeg (optional)
1 inch fresh ginger (optional)
16 cups water
1/2 cup sweetener (brown sugar or maple syrup, to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Add apples, oranges, spices to a large stockpot, Crock-Pot, or Instant Pot.
Cover with water, leaving 1–2 inches of space at the top.
For stovetop: bring to simmer over high heat, reduce to medium-low, and simmer covered for 2 hours.
For Crock-Pot: cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
For Instant Pot: cook on Manual for 25 minutes, then quick release.
Mash apples and oranges against the pot sides to release flavor.
Simmer a little longer if desired, then strain through cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer.
Press solids to extract juice; discard solids.
Stir in sweetener to taste and serve warm.

Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
Peeling oranges can reduce tartness.
Freeze cider for up to 3 months in sealed containers.
Reheat slowly to preserve flavor—avoid boiling.
Optional garnishes include orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and apple wedges.
Can be served spiked with bourbon or brandy for adult gatherings.

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/homemade-apple-cider-recipe/