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Hard Cider

Craft your own hard cider at home with this beginner-friendly recipe that brings out the essence of fresh apples.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 40 glasses
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 5 gallons fresh apple cider unpasteurized is best
  • 1 packet champagne yeast or cider yeast
  • 1 cup granulated sugar for carbonation
  • 1 tablespoon yeast nutrient optional

Equipment

  • 5-gallon fermenter with airlock
  • Hydrometer
  • Sanitizing solution
  • Large pot for boiling
  • Bottles and caps
  • Siphon for bottling

Method
 

  1. Sanitize all equipment using a sanitizing solution.
  2. Pour the fresh apple cider into the sanitized fermenter, leaving some space at the top.
  3. If using yeast nutrient, sprinkle it into the cider.
  4. Sprinkle the yeast on top of the cider without stirring.
  5. Attach the airlock to the fermenter.
  6. Store the fermenter in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks.
  7. After a week, check the specific gravity with a hydrometer.
  8. Siphon the cider into sanitized bottles, leaving some headspace.

Notes

Enjoy your hard cider chilled, and consider experimenting with different apple varieties for unique flavors.