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Hard Peach Cider

A refreshing hard peach cider recipe that captures the essence of summer with every sip.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 days
Total Time 7 days 15 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 6 cups ripe peaches peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pectic enzyme
  • 1 teaspoon yeast nutrient
  • 1 packet cider yeast like Safale S-04
  • 1 gallon water preferably filtered

Equipment

  • Fermentation vessel (glass carboy or food-grade plastic bucket)
  • Airlock and stopper
  • Hydrometer
  • Sanitizer (like Star San)
  • Funnel
  • Bottles and caps or corks
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Start by sanitizing all your equipment to prevent unwanted bacteria from ruining your cider.
  2. Peel and slice the peaches, removing any pits.
  3. In your fermentation vessel, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, pectic enzyme, and yeast nutrient.
  4. Pour in the gallon of water, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar completely.
  5. Using a hydrometer, take a specific gravity reading to determine the sugar level.
  6. Sprinkle the cider yeast over the mixture without stirring.
  7. Seal the fermentation vessel with an airlock and place it in a dark, cool area.
  8. Allow fermentation to take place for 1-2 weeks.
  9. Once fermentation is complete, siphon the cider into sanitized bottles.
  10. Seal the bottles tightly to keep the carbonation inside.

Notes

This hard peach cider is refreshing on its own but pairs wonderfully with spicy barbecue dishes, grilled chicken or fish, and cheese platters.