Unified Press - Cider Recipe

Combine liquids

Pour 6 cups fresh-pressed apple cider and 1 cup water into a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Stir in 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon honey until dissolved.

Heat gently

Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture just to a simmer (do not boil) — about 6–8 minutes. Reduce heat to low so the liquid maintains a gentle steam.

Add spices

Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 8 whole cloves, 6 allspice berries, 2 star anise, 1 inch sliced fresh ginger, and 1 thinly sliced orange (peel on) to the simmering cider.

Infuse

Keep the cider at a bare simmer and let the spices steep for 20–30 minutes, partially covered. Taste after 20 minutes and continue up to 30 minutes if you want a stronger spice character. Gently press the orange slices against the side of the pot with a spoon to release oils if desired.

Strain

Remove from heat. Using a fine-mesh strainer, strain the cider into a clean pot or heatproof container to remove spices, ginger, orange slices and whole aromatics. Discard solids.

Brighten & adjust sweetness

Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice and taste. If you prefer sweeter cider, add an additional 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar, stirring to dissolve.

Serve warm

Ladle the hot cider into 4 warmed mugs (about 2/3–3/4 cup per mug). If using, add 2 tablespoons bourbon or dark rum to each mug just before serving. Garnish each cup with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

Keep warm (optional)

To keep a larger batch warm for service, return strained cider to the pot and keep over the lowest heat setting or in a warm slow cooker on 'warm' for up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.