Apple cider is a popular and refreshing drink, especially during the fall season. It’s a delicious blend of apples, spices, and sweetness that can be enjoyed either hot or cold. While many people think that making apple cider requires a juicer, that is simply not true. In fact, you can easily make apple cider without a juicer right in the comfort of your own home. In this DIY guide, we will walk you through the process of making apple cider without a juicer, step by step. So, put on your apron, grab some apples, and let’s get started!
Gather the Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin making apple cider, you’ll need to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– Fresh apples (about 10-12 depending on their size)
– Water
– Cinnamon sticks
– Whole cloves
– Brown sugar or honey (optional for sweetness)
– Lemon juice (optional for tartness)
Equipment:
– Large pot
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Potato masher or wooden spoon
– Cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer
– Heat-resistant container or pitcher for storage
Prepare the Apples
Before you can start making apple cider, you’ll need to prepare the apples. Start by washing the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Then, core and peel the apples. If you don’t have a corer, you can simply cut the apples into quarters and remove the seeds and stems. Once the apples are prepped, chop them into smaller pieces to make it easier to extract the juice.
Cook the Apples
Once the apples are prepared, it’s time to cook them. In a large pot, add the chopped apples and enough water to cover them completely. For added flavor, you can toss in a couple of cinnamon sticks and a few whole cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are soft and mushy.
Mash the Apples
Once the apples are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using a potato masher or a wooden spoon, mash the apples until they are completely broken down and pulpy. This will help release the juice from the apples and enhance the flavor of the cider.
Strain the Mixture
After the apples have been mashed, it’s time to strain the mixture to remove any solids and extract the juice. Line a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a heat-resistant container or pitcher. Carefully pour the apple mixture into the strainer, allowing the juice to flow through while capturing the solids. Gently press down on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
Sweeten and Flavor
At this point, you have freshly extracted apple juice, which can be enjoyed as is. However, if you prefer a sweeter or more flavored cider, you can add sweeteners and spices. Taste the juice and adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding brown sugar or honey. For an extra kick, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice to give the cider a tart taste. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Chill and Serve
Once you’ve added the desired sweeteners and flavors, cover the container/pitcher and refrigerate the cider for a few hours or until it’s thoroughly chilled. Chilling the cider allows the flavors to meld together and creates a refreshing drink. When you’re ready to serve, pour the apple cider into glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.
Additional Tips and Variations
– If you don’t have access to fresh apples, you can use store-bought apple juice as a shortcut. Simply skip the steps for cooking and mashing the apples and proceed to strain and flavor the juice.
– Experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred flavor profile. Some apples are sweeter and juicier, while others are more tart and crisp.
– For a spicier taste, you can add additional spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to the apple mixture while simmering.
– If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender or food processor to blend the cooked apples before straining.
– To serve the apple cider warm, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to boil the cider as it can affect the taste and texture.
Now that you know how to make apple cider without a juicer, you can enjoy this delightful drink anytime you want. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, sweet or tart, homemade apple cider is a treat that can be shared with family and friends. So, get creative, play with flavors, and sip on your homemade apple cider while savoring the flavors of autumn. Cheers!