Apple Juice Recipe

Wash and prepare apples

Rinse the apples under cold running water to remove any wax or debris. Pat dry. Core the apples and cut them into quarters or chunks large enough for your juicer or blender. You may peel if you prefer a clearer juice, but leaving the peel adds flavor and nutrients.

Prepare lemon

Roll the lemon on the counter to loosen juices, then cut in half. Reserve one half for squeezing and the other for optional garnish or additional acid if needed.

If using a juicer: feed apple pieces through the juicer chute in batches according to your machine's instructions. Collect the fresh apple juice in a clean pitcher. As needed, press or re-run apple pulp to extract more juice if your machine supports it.

Immediately squeeze the reserved lemon half into the collected apple juice (about 1–1½ tsp juice) to brighten flavor and slow oxidation. Stir gently.

Taste the juice. If you prefer sweeter juice, dissolve 1–2 tablespoons sugar or honey in a few tablespoons of warm water and stir into the juice until combined. If the juice is very concentrated, dilute with cold water or ice to taste (up to about 250 ml).

Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth if you prefer a clearer juice (optional). Use a spoon to press solids to extract more liquid.

Place apple pieces in a blender with 100–150 ml water to help blending. Blend on high until very smooth, about 45–60 seconds.

Pour the blended apple purée through a fine mesh sieve, nut milk bag, or cheesecloth set over a bowl or pitcher. Use a spoon or squeeze the bag to extract as much juice as possible.

Proceed to add lemon juice, sweetener, and dilute as described in the 'Juicing' section. Strain again if you want a clearer finish.

Chill the juice in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes if not serving immediately, or serve over ice. Stir before serving because natural settling may occur.

Garnish each glass with a thin apple slice or a lemon wedge if desired. Consume fresh within 48 hours for best flavor and nutrient retention; store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.