My Easy Homemade Apple Cider Will Make Your Kitchen Smell Like a Fall Dream

When it comes to fall flavors, pumpkin spice might be the diva of the party, but for me, apples are the true star of fall (think: apple pie and apple cider donuts). Zesty and warm with notes of cinnamon and star anise and plenty of sweet flavor, this homemade apple cider is the perfect way to use up those apples you picked. The best part: It’s incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’ll perfume your house with a heavenly smell, and soon you’ll have your own homemade apple cider to share (or keep for yourself — no judgment!).

• The flavor of fall. With notes of cinnamon and orange mingling with a mix of apples, this apple cider delivers all those warm, cozy autumn flavors.
• So easy to make. No peeling and minimal chopping, just simmer apples, spices, and sugar together. 
• Make it your own. Add your favorite spices, like nutmeg, cloves, allspice, or ginger to put your own personal touch on this versatile recipe.

• Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to create a depth of flavor.
• Oranges: Gives the cider an extra bright and tangy kick that balances the sweetness and keeps this cider from being one note. Peeling the oranges keeps the cider from being too tart or bitter; but if you like a little extra tartness, leave the peels on.
• Sugar: Blends with the warming spices to give this cider a rounded sweetness that’s just right, never cloying.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon and apples are a perfect duo. Look for Indonesian or Ceylon cinnamon if you can find it. You can use cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon to bring in that quintessential warm spice flavor.
• Star anise: With its natural sweet and spicy undertones, star anise adds a little intrigue to this cider, making it unique and memorable.

1. Combine ingredients. Bring apples, oranges, sugar, spices, and water to a boil.
2. Simmer. Simmer for three hours, mashing the fruit every 30 minutes. 
3. Strain and finish. Strain the cider through a cheese cloth-lined strainer to remove any solids. Adding lemon at the end is optional, but it provides a nice brightness and contrast to the warmly spiced cider. Serve warm or chilled.

• An equal amount of another sweetener, such as brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey, can be used instead of granulated sugar.
• Experiment with your favorite warming spices, such as nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice to find a blend of spices that’s just right for you.

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.  Thaw frozen cider in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
• Apple cider can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium until it reaches your desired temperature, or heat in the microwave in a microwave-safe mug for about 2 minutes.