Imen Alton Brown Apple Cider Recipe is made with Granny Smith and Gala apples, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, light brown sugar, and water. This recipe creates a warm, spiced apple cider perfect for fall and winter. It takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes to prepare and yields 12 cups.
Alton Brown Apple Cider Recipe Ingredients
- 6 large tart apples, such as Granny Smith (about 2 pounds)
- 6 large sweet apples, such as Gala (about 2 pounds)
- 12 whole cloves
- 6 cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 to 1 cup packed light brown sugar
How To Make Alton Brown Apple Cider Recipe
- Prep the Apples: Wash and dry apples thoroughly. Cut each into 8 wedges, leaving skins, seeds, and stems intact.
- Start the Slow Cooker: Transfer apples to a 7-quart slow cooker. Add cloves, cinnamon sticks, and 12 cups of water. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
- Mash the Apples: Remove lid and mash apples with a potato masher. Cover again and cook on high for another 2 hours.
- Strain the Mixture: Set a fine-mesh strainer over a large pot. In batches, ladle apple mixture into strainer and press pulp with a ladle to extract liquid. Discard pulp.
- Sweeten the Cider: Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar until dissolved. Taste and add more sugar if desired.
- Serve: Serve hot, or let cool and enjoy chilled over ice.
Recipe Tips
- Use a Mix of Apples: Combining tart and sweet varieties creates a balanced, flavorful cider.
- Don’t Peel or Core: Apple skins and cores add depth and body to the cider.
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with less sugar and adjust to taste after straining.
- Strain Thoroughly: Press well on the apple mash to extract as much juice as possible.
- Add Aromatics: For extra flavor, toss in orange slices or a pinch of nutmeg.
What To Serve With Apple Cider
This cider pairs well with autumn treats like spiced cookies, pumpkin bread, cinnamon rolls, roasted nuts, or savory items like cheddar cheese and apple tarts. It’s also a cozy complement to holiday breakfasts or brunch.
How To Store Apple Cider
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Freeze: Freeze in portions using airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw and heat before serving.
Apple Cider Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 110 (per cup)
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
FAQs
Can I use different apple varieties?
Yes, feel free to mix and match any sweet and tart apples you enjoy.
Is it necessary to strain the cider?
Yes, straining removes the pulp and solids, leaving a smooth beverage.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer covered in a large pot for 2–3 hours, then mash and simmer another hour before straining.
Is the cider alcoholic?
No, it’s non-alcoholic, but you can add spiced rum or bourbon if desired.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in a mug.
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Alton Brown Apple Cider Recipe
Description
A warm, spiced cider made from apples, cinnamon, and cloves—perfect for cozy fall days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut apples into 8 wedges each.
- Place apples, cloves, cinnamon, and 12 cups water into a 7-quart slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
- Mash apples with a potato masher. Cover and cook another 2 hours.
- Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a pot, pressing out the juice.
- Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar until dissolved. Taste and add more if desired.
- Serve hot or chilled.
