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Hard Cider

A fun and rewarding project to brew delightful hard cider at home.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 15 ounces
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 5 gallons apple juice do not use juice with preservatives
  • 1 packet cider yeast like Safcider or Nottingham
  • 1 cup sugar for carbonation
  • Optional: Spices cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg

Equipment

  • Fermentation vessel (5-gallon glass carboy or food-grade plastic bucket)
  • Airlock and stopper
  • Sanitizer (like Star San)
  • Hydrometer
  • Siphon or racking cane
  • Bottles and caps
  • Bottle capper

Method
 

  1. Sanitize all equipment to prevent unwanted bacteria.
  2. Pour the apple juice into your fermentation vessel, leaving some headspace.
  3. Sprinkle the cider yeast over the juice without stirring.
  4. Fit the airlock onto the fermentation vessel and seal it well.
  5. Store in a dark, cool place (ideal temperature 60-75°F).
  6. Allow the cider to ferment for 1-2 weeks.
  7. Check specific gravity using a hydrometer.
  8. Siphon the cider into sanitized bottles, adding sugar for carbonation.
  9. Store bottles at room temperature for about a week to carbonate.
  10. Chill in the fridge before serving.

Notes

This cider can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various foods.