There’s something magical about the smell of hot apple cider simmering on the stove. It’s warm, spiced, and cozy—everything fall is meant to be in a mug. Whether you’re coming in from raking leaves or gathering with friends around the fire pit, this homemade hot apple cider is the perfect seasonal drink to warm you from the inside out. And yes—you can absolutely make it from scratch. It’s easy, customizable, and way more flavorful than store-bought!
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We usually enjoy ours with a splash of homemade apple brandy, but truthfully—it’s just as delicious all on its own. Bonus: this cozy cider also makes the perfect base for my sourdough apple cider donuts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with real apples – no concentrate here
- Infused with warming spices – cinnamon, clove, and orange
- Smells like fall in a pot
- Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or sipping solo
Ingredients
- 10–12 sweet apples (a mix of Honeycrisp, Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji, or whatever apples you have)
- 1 orange (quartered, peel on—or use orange slices and orange peel)
- Optional: lemon peel or lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor
- 3–4 cinnamon sticks (or more to place cinnamon sticks in the mugs before serving)
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves (or ¾ teaspoon ground cloves)
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries (or 1 teaspoon ground allspice)
- Optional: 1–2 star anise
- 8 cups hot water (or enough to cover fruit by 2")
- ½ cup brown sugar, or sweetener to taste (maple syrup is a great swap)
How to Make Homemade Apple Cider
STEP 1: Roughly chop the apples and slices of orange—no need to peel or core. Just remove any stickers and rinse. Add apples, citrus, mulling spices, brown sugar, and water to a large pot or medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours. Your entire house will smell incredible!
STEP 2: Mash the softened fruit with a slotted spoon or potato masher to release the juices. Simmer another 30–45 minutes.
STEP 4: Carefully strain through a fine strainer or coffee filter into a clean bowl or pitcher. Discard the solids.
STEP 5: Ladle into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently when ready.
Tips & Variations
- Crock pot method: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low 6–8 hours or high 3–4 hours.
- Want to spike it? Add a little rum or bourbon to make this a hard cider before serving for the best cozy alcoholic beverage.
- Make a large batch and freeze for later or jar it up for gifting!
- Great for holiday tables or post-apple orchard outings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I spike this apple cider?
Yes! Add a little rum, bourbon, or homemade hard cider just before serving to preserve the alcohol content.
Do I have to add alcohol?
Not at all—this is a sweet apple cider that’s packed with flavor. It’s a cozy treat for everyone.
Can I use this cider in other recipes?
Definitely! It makes a flavorful liquid base in baked goods—try it in my Sourdough Apple Cider Donuts!
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! You can easily double or triple the recipe. I recommend using a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the event——guaranteed to wow your guests on a cold night.
How long does homemade cider made with juice last?
Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, it’ll keep for up to 5 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What kind of apples are best for homemade cider?
A mix of sweet apples and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith gives the most balanced flavor.
Can I Use Apple Juice Instead?
For a shortcut, simmer unfiltered apple juice with mulling spices. Just note the main difference—using fresh fruit brings out the cider’s flavor and lets your taste buds enjoy the full experience.
Tried this recipe?
I would love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @idiesfarm and #idiesfarm so I can share your beautiful creation!
How to Make Hot Apple Cider from Scratch (With Real Apples!)
Ingredients
- 10–12 sweet apples a mix of Honeycrisp, Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji or whatever you have on hand
- 1 orange quartered, peel on—or use orange slices and orange peel
- Optional: lemon peel or lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor
- 3–4 cinnamon sticks or more to place cinnamon sticks in the mugs before serving
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves (or ¾ teaspoon ground cloves)
- 1 tablespoon allspice berries or 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1–2 star anise Optional
- 8 cups hot water or enough to cover fruit by 2"
- ½ cup brown sugar or sweeten to taste (maple syrup is a great swap)
Instructions
- Roughly chop the apples and slices of orange—no need to peel or core. Just remove any stickers and rinse. Add apples, citrus, mulling spices, brown sugar, and water to a large pot or medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours. Your entire house will smell incredible!
- Mash the softened fruit with a slotted spoon or potato masher to release the juices. Simmer another 30–45 minutes.
- Carefully strain through a fine strainer or coffee filter into a clean bowl or pitcher. Discard the solids.
- Ladle into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently when ready.
Notes
-
- Crock pot method: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low 6–8 hours or high 3–4 hours.
-
- Want to spike it? Add a little rum or bourbon to make this a hard cider before serving for the best cozy alcoholic beverage.
-
- Make a large batch and freeze for later or jar it up for gifting!
-
- Great for holiday tables or post-apple orchard outings.
Welcome!
Hi! I’m Stephanie, also known as Idie. Follow me as I tap into the methods of the past and learn how to make my world a little smaller.
