As the weather cools down and the leaves start to change, there’s nothing quite like cracking open a cold glass of hard cider on a crisp autumn evening. And why settle for just any old recipe when you can try something new and exciting? In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 refreshing easy hard cider recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.
From classic combinations like apple and spice to bold flavor profiles like pineapple and ginger, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a simple sipper or a more complex concoction, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite apples, berries, and spices, and let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Classic Apple Hard Cider
Create a warm and inviting atmosphere with this classic apple hard cider recipe, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and refreshing drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon acid blend (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon campden tablets or potassium metabisulfite (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Add yeast and any additional ingredients (acid blend and campden tablets or potassium metabisulfite). Stir gently to combine.
4. Cover the pot with a cloth or plastic wrap and let ferment in a dark place at 68-72°F for 7-14 days, or until bubbles form on the surface.
5. Strain the cider into glass bottles or jugs, leaving about an inch of headspace.
Cooking Time: 7-14 days fermentation time
Spiced Autumn Hard Cider
Capture the essence of autumn with this warm and aromatic hard cider recipe, featuring a blend of spices and apple goodness. Perfect for crisp fall nights or Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider (chilled)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Combine chilled apple cider, brown sugar, and spices in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the cider through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
5. Refrigerate until chilled, then serve in glasses or mugs.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes + steeping time
Berry Blast Hard Cider
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of berries and cider in this refreshing recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup mixed berry juice (blueberry, raspberry, blackberry)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, mixed berry juice, and sugar in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add water and citric acid (if using) to the cider mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Transfer the cider to a sanitized bucket or carboy. Fit with an airlock and allow fermentation to take place at room temperature (68-72°F) for 7-10 days, or until bubbles stop forming in the airlock.
6. Strain the cider through cheesecloth into glass jugs or bottles. Store in the refrigerator to slow down fermentation.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fermentation Time: 7-10 days
Enjoy your delicious Berry Blast Hard Cider!
Citrus Infused Hard Cider
Citrus Infused Hard Cider Recipe
Brighten up your fall festivities with this refreshing citrus infused hard cider recipe! This unique twist on traditional apple cider combines the tartness of citrus fruits with the warmth of cinnamon and cloves.
Ingredients:
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cinnamon stick (about 6 inches)
• 3 whole cloves
• Sliced citrus fruits (orange, lemon, lime) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, orange juice, and grapefruit juice in a large pot.
2. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the pot.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes.
6. Strain cider into glass bottles or jugs.
7. Chill in refrigerator before serving.
8. Garnish with sliced citrus fruits.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus infusion time)
Pineapple Ginger Hard Cider
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spiciness of ginger to create a unique and flavorful hard cider perfect for warm weather or any time you want to add some excitement to your beer selection.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/2 cup fresh pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, pineapple juice, and chopped ginger in a large brew kettle or pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Pitch the yeast and seal the container with an airlock.
6. Store in a dark place at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2-3 weeks, or until fermentation is complete.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 2-3 weeks fermentation time
Honey Lavender Hard Cider
Escape to a warm summer evening with this sweet and soothing hard cider recipe, infused with the subtle flavors of honey and lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, honey, and lavender buds. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the cider through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Add sliced lemon and cinnamon stick to the cider.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-8 hours (depending on steeping time)
Pear and Cinnamon Hard Cider
Transform your cider game with this autumnal delight! This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of cinnamon to create a cozy and refreshing drink perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon hard cider (chilled)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks (6 inches long each)
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped pears, sugar, and 2 cups of cold water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the pears are tender.
2. Remove the pot from the heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the pear mixture into a large pitcher or jug, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Add the chilled hard cider to the pitcher and stir well.
5. Add the cinnamon sticks and lemon slices to the pitcher for added flavor and visual appeal.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Tropical Mango Hard Cider
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing hard cider infused with the sweetness of mangoes and the tanginess of citrus fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup mango puree
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
– 1 tablespoon pectic enzyme
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, mango puree, pineapple juice, and lime juice in a large pot. Heat the mixture to 180°F to dissolve the sugars.
2. Remove from heat and add brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a sanitized fermentation vessel.
4. Pitch the yeast by rehydrating it in warm water (around 90°F) and adding it to the cider. Cover the vessel with a cloth or paper towel to keep dust out.
5. Monitor the fermentation for 2-3 weeks or until the bubbles stop. Rack the cider to clarify, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 hours (fermentation time may vary depending on yeast and conditions)
Cherry Vanilla Hard Cider
Elevate your fall gatherings with this refreshing and flavorful Cherry Vanilla Hard Cider recipe. With a perfect blend of sweet and tart, this cider is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup cherry juice
– 1/2 cup vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, cherry juice, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and cinnamon powder. Stir well to combine.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the cider into a large pitcher or bottles. Discard any solids.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 1 gallon (approximately 16 servings)
Peach Rosemary Hard Cider
Elevate your cider game with this unique blend of sweet peaches and herbaceous rosemary. Perfect for warm weather, this refreshing drink is perfect for sipping on a patio or sharing at a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon hard cider (chilled)
– 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine chilled hard cider and diced peaches.
2. Add fresh rosemary leaves to the pitcher and muddle (gently crush) with a spoon or spatula to release oils and flavors.
3. Stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Chill mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Maple Bourbon Hard Cider
Transform your hard cider into a rich and indulgent treat with the addition of maple syrup and bourbon whiskey. This recipe is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, offering a warm and cozy beverage that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. Begin by pouring the apple cider into a large pot or brew kettle.
2. Add the maple syrup and stir until fully dissolved.
3. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Strain the cider into a serving vessel, discarding the solids.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Raspberry Lime Hard Cider
Elevate your hard cider game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of fresh raspberries and lime. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want to add a touch of brightness to your drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine the apple cider and fresh raspberries in a large pitcher or jug.
2. Muddle the raspberries gently with a spoon to release their flavor and color.
3. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the cider over ice cubes, garnished with additional fresh raspberries and a lime wedge if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve straight away.
Caramel Apple Hard Cider
Transform the flavors of fall into a refreshing hard cider with the sweet and tangy taste of caramel apples. This recipe combines crisp apple cider with rich caramel syrup and a hint of cinnamon for a perfect autumnal drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup
– 2 cinnamon sticks (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider and caramel syrup. Heat over medium heat until the syrup dissolves.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon to the cider. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture into a large jug or bottles, discarding the solids.
5. Store in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 1 gallon
Enjoy your Caramel Apple Hard Cider on its own or with a slice of pie!
Pomegranate Mint Hard Cider
Elevate your cider game with this refreshing Pomegranate Mint Hard Cider recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon acid blend
– 1/4 teaspoon yeast nutrient
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, pomegranate juice, and mint leaves in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bucket. Discard solids.
4. Add lemon juice, yeast, acid blend, and yeast nutrient to the cider mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Cover and let ferment at room temperature (68°F – 72°F) for 7-10 days, or until bubbles stop forming.
6. Rack the cider into a secondary fermentation vessel and store at refrigerated temperatures (40°F – 50°F). Carbonation will occur naturally over time.
Cooking Time: 7-10 days (primary fermentation), several weeks (secondary fermentation)
Blueberry Basil Hard Cider
This refreshing recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries and the brightness of basil to create a unique and delicious hard cider perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, blueberries, and basil in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F to 190°F.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Add sugar and yeast to the cider. Stir until dissolved, then cover and let cool to room temperature.
5. Transfer to a sanitized fermenting vessel and add water to reach desired carbonation level (optional).
6. Allow fermentation to complete, typically 7-14 days.
Cook Time: None
Fermentation Time: 7-14 days
Cranberry Orange Hard Cider
This refreshing hard cider combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for fall and winter gatherings. With a hint of spice, this unique flavor profile is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the apple cider, cranberries, and orange juice in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
4. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Allow cider to cool and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-fermented recipe.
Ginger Lemon Hard Cider
Elevate your cider game with this zesty and invigorating recipe that combines the warmth of ginger with the brightness of lemon. Perfect for sipping on a crisp autumn evening or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, sliced ginger, and brown sugar.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the cider into a large pitcher or jug, discarding the solids.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and ground cinnamon.
6. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Strawberry Rhubarb Hard Cider
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of strawberries and rhubarb in this unique hard cider recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 lb fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) champagne yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon acid blend
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, strawberries, and rhubarb in a large pot. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 160°F.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container. Discard solids.
4. Add sugar, yeast, and acid blend to the liquid. Stir until dissolved.
5. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized fermenting vessel and top with water, leaving about 1 inch headspace.
6. Secure lid and allow fermentation to occur at 65°F – 75°F for 2-3 weeks.
7. Rack and secondary ferment for an additional week before bottling or kegging.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (steeping) + 2-3 weeks (fermentation)
Blackberry Sage Hard Cider
Elevate your cider game with this unique recipe that combines the sweetness of blackberries with the earthy flavor of sage. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, this hard cider is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 2 cups blackberry puree (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 packet champagne yeast (or equivalent)
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, blackberry puree, and sage leaves in a large pot. Heat the mixture over medium heat until warm and well combined.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a sanitized vessel. Discard solids.
4. Add lemon juice and yeast packet (rehydrated in warm water). Stir to combine.
5. Ferment at 65°F – 75°F for 2-3 weeks, or until fermentation is complete.
6. Secondary fermentation: store the cider in a cool, dark place for an additional 2-4 weeks before bottling and carbonation.
Cooking Time: 3-5 days (primary fermentation) + 2-4 weeks (secondary fermentation)
Spiced Pear Hard Cider
Spiced Pear Hard Cider Recipe
As the seasons change, warm up with a glass of Spiced Pear Hard Cider. This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a perfect blend for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 2 cups pear juice (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, pear juice, and brown sugar in a large pot.
2. Add cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger to the pot.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Remove spices from the pot and let cider cool to room temperature.
5. Strain cider through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
6. Chill or store in refrigerator before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your hard cider game with these 20 refreshing and easy recipes! From classic apple to tropical mango, there’s something for every palate. Spiced autumn flavors meet sweet berry blends, while citrus and ginger infusions add zesty twists. Other highlights include honey lavender, pear and cinnamon, and pomegranate mint. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, these recipes will guide you in creating unique and delicious hard ciders that are sure to delight.
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