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Holiday Cider

Holiday Cider recipe image
This homemade Holiday Cider is a sophisticated twist on traditional apple juice, transformed through fermentation into a complex, slightly effervescent beverage. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with fresh ginger and lemon zest, it offers a robust aromatic profile that warms the soul. The addition of maple syrup balances the tartness of the apple juice, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes. With an alcohol content of approximately 15%, this cider is best enjoyed in moderation during special occasions or holiday feasts. The long fermentation process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a drink that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Serve chilled to appreciate the subtle spice hints and the gentle fizz from natural carbonation.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 5
Calories: 57.5
Dietary: Gluten-free
Description
This homemade Holiday Cider is a sophisticated twist on traditional apple juice, transformed through fermentation into a complex, slightly effervescent beverage. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with fresh ginger and lemon zest, it offers a robust aromatic profile that warms the soul. The addition of maple syrup balances the tartness of the apple juice, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes. With an alcohol content of approximately 15%, this cider is best enjoyed in moderation during special occasions or holiday feasts. The long fermentation process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a drink that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Serve chilled to appreciate the subtle spice hints and the gentle fizz from natural carbonation.
Ingredients
  • 5 gallons Apple Juice (Gravenstein or Jonathan blend preferred)
  • 6 cups Maple Syrup
  • 2 1/3 tablespoons Whole Cloves
  • 1/2 tablespoon Nutmeg, grated
  • 10 4-inch sticks Cinnamon Sticks
  • 3 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 2 inches Ginger Root, peeled and grated
  • 1 packet Red Star Champagne Yeast
  • 3/4 cup Corn Sugar (for priming)
Directions
  1. 1
    Combine 3/4 gallon of apple juice, maple syrup, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated ginger in a large stockpot.
  2. 2
    Place whole spices and ginger in cheesecloth or spice bags for easier removal later.
  3. 3
    Simmer the mixture gently for 45 minutes to infuse the flavors, stirring occasionally.
  4. 4
    Remove from heat and allow the spiced mixture to cool to room temperature.
  5. 5
    Strain the spiced liquid to remove solids, then add it to the remaining 4-1/4 gallons of apple juice in a sanitized carboy.
  6. 6
    Stir in the champagne yeast according to package instructions to activate it.
  7. 7
    Seal the carboy with an airlock and let the cider ferment in a cool, dark place for 34 days.
  8. 8
    Rack the cider into a secondary fermentation vessel, leaving behind any sediment at the bottom.
  9. 9
    Top off the secondary vessel with more apple juice if necessary and ferment for an additional 22 days.
  10. 10
    Dissolve 3/4 cup of corn sugar in a small amount of warm water and stir into the cider just before bottling to prime for carbonation.
  11. 11
    Bottle the cider in sanitized bottles, ensuring they are tightly sealed.
  12. 12
    Age the bottled cider at room temperature for 30 days to allow carbonation to develop.
  13. 13
    Refrigerate before serving to enjoy the sparkling, spiced cider.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5

Amount Per Serving
Calories 57.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 13.8g5%
Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
Sugars 12.0g
Protein 0.1g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Use high-quality apple juice, preferably from Gravenstein or Jonathan apples, for the best flavor profile.

Ensure all equipment is thoroughly sanitized to prevent contamination during fermentation.

The alcohol content may vary depending on the sugar content of the apple juice and fermentation efficiency. Expect around 15% ABV.

For a less yeasty taste, be careful during racking to avoid disturbing the sediment too much.

Store finished bottles in a cool, dark place until ready to serve. Refrigeration enhances the flavor and carbonation.

Adjust the amount of spices to taste; some may prefer a stronger or milder spice profile.

Original Gravity: 1.100 | Final Gravity: 0.998 | Primary Ferment: 34 days | Secondary Ferment: 22 days

Keywords: apple cider, fermented cider, holiday drink, spiced cider, homemade cider, apple juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, lemon zest, champagne yeast, fermentation, sparkling cider, alcoholic beverage, festive drink, winter warmer, batch brewing, homebrewing, cider making
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/holiday-cider/