Step 1: Wash and prepare the apples. Thoroughly wash all apples. Quarter them and remove the cores. There’s no need to peel them, as the peels contribute to the color and flavor of this apple cider recipe. Roughly chop into pieces.
Step 2: Place apples and water in a large stockpot. Put all the prepared apples into a very large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add enough cold water to just barely cover the apples.
Step 3: Add spices and initial sweetener. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise (if using). Stir in 1/2 cup of brown sugar or maple syrup. You can adjust the sweetness later.
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then simmer. Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, or until the apples are very soft and mushy.
Step 5: Mash the apples. After simmering, use a potato masher to thoroughly mash the softened apples directly in the pot. This helps extract maximum juice and flavor for your apple cider recipe.
Step 6: Strain the cider. Set a fine-mesh sieve or colander over another large pot or bowl. Line the sieve with several layers of cheesecloth. Carefully ladle the apple mixture into the cheesecloth-lined sieve. Allow it to drain naturally for about 15-20 minutes. Then, gather the edges of the cheesecloth and twist tightly, pressing out as much liquid as possible from the pulp.
Step 7: Taste and adjust sweetness. Taste your strained apple cider. Add more brown sugar or maple syrup, if desired, stirring until dissolved. You can also add a pinch more spices if needed.
Step 8: Serve hot or chill. Serve your homemade apple cider warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice, or allow it to cool completely before chilling and serving cold. This versatile apple cider recipe is perfect for any preference.
Step 9: Store properly. Store cooled apple cider in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 7-10 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Step 10: Reheat gently. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid re-boiling to preserve the delicate flavors of your delicious apple cider recipe.