Go Back

Award Winning Hard Cider

This hard cider recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with its unique flavors and satisfying fizz, perfect for fall gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 7 days
Total Time 7 days
Servings: 15 cups
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 5 gallons of fresh apple juice preferably unfiltered
  • 2 cups of granulated sugar or honey for a different flavor
  • 1 packet of champagne yeast or cider yeast
  • 1 teaspoon of yeast nutrient optional
  • 1 teaspoon of potassium metabisulfite for sanitizer

Equipment

  • Fermentation vessel (5-gallon carboy or food-grade bucket)
  • Airlock and stopper
  • Hydrometer (optional, for measuring specific gravity)
  • Large pot for boiling
  • Funnel
  • Bottling equipment (bottles, caps, capping tool)

Method
 

  1. Start by sanitizing all your equipment to prevent unwanted bacteria.
  2. Pour the fresh apple juice into your fermentation vessel.
  3. Dissolve the sugar in a small amount of warm water and add it to the apple juice.
  4. Sprinkle the yeast over the juice mixture and stir gently.
  5. Seal the fermentation vessel with the airlock.
  6. Let the cider ferment in a cool, dark place for about 1-2 weeks.
  7. Once bubbling slows down, siphon the cider into sanitized bottles.
  8. Add a small amount of sugar to each bottle for carbonation before capping them.

Notes

Patience is key! Allow your cider to carbonate for at least 2 weeks before enjoying.