Birch Beer Recipe

Birch Beer Directions

1. 1

   Prepare the Birch Sap

   In a large pot, combine the birch sap and water. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm, but not boiling.

2. 2

   Dissolve the Sugar

   Add the brown sugar to the warm birch sap and water mixture. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. 3

   Add Flavorings

   Add the sassafras root, wintergreen leaves, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine the flavors.

4. 4

   Cool the Mixture

   Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. This may take about 30 minutes.

5. 5

   Activate the Yeast

   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in a couple of tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

6. 6

   Combine Yeast with Mixture

   Once the birch beer mixture is cool, add the activated yeast and stir gently. Add the citric acid at this time as well.

7. 7

   Ferment

   Cover the mixture with a clean cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours, until bubbly and slightly fizzy.

8. 8

   Bottle the Birch Beer

   Once fermentation is complete, pour the birch beer into clean bottles, leaving some space at the top. Seal the bottles tightly.

9. 9

   Chill and Serve

   Refrigerate the bottles for a few hours before serving. Enjoy your homemade birch beer chilled!