How to Craft an Exquisite Hard Cider from Homemade Apple Cider- A Step-by-Step Guide

How do you make hard cider from apple cider? If you’re a fan of fermented beverages and looking to experiment with homemade recipes, hard cider is a delightful option. Made from fermented apple cider, this drink offers a refreshing taste with a touch of sparkle. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making hard cider from apple cider, ensuring you enjoy a delicious homemade brew.

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to gather the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 gallon of good-quality apple cider
– 1 packet of champagne or ale yeast
– 1 campden tablet (optional)
– 1 tsp of pectic enzyme (optional)
– 1/2 tsp of tannin (optional)
– 1/2 tsp of yeast nutrient (optional)
– Bottling equipment (siphon hose, bottling bucket, bottles, and caps)
– Sanitizer (such as Star-San or a homemade solution)

Once you have all the required items, follow these steps to make hard cider from apple cider:

1. Prepare the cider:

– Begin by sanitizing your equipment to prevent any contamination. Use a sanitizer solution or Star-San.
– If you’re using a campden tablet, add it to the apple cider to kill any bacteria present. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage.
– If desired, add a pectic enzyme to help clarify the cider. This step is optional but can result in a clearer final product.

2. Add yeast and other ingredients:

– In a sanitized fermenter, pour the apple cider and add the yeast packet. Stir well to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed.
– If you’re using tannin and yeast nutrient, add them according to the package instructions. These ingredients can enhance the flavor and fermentation process.

3. Fermentation:

– Cover the fermenter with a sanitized lid or airlock and let it sit at room temperature (around 70°F or 21°C) for about 7-10 days. During this time, the yeast will consume the sugars in the cider, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide.
– Check the cider periodically to monitor its progress. Once the bubbling subsides and the cider clears, it’s time to bottle.

4. Carbonation:

– Once the cider has finished fermenting, it’s time to add carbonation. This can be done by bottling the cider and adding a small amount of sugar to each bottle. The sugar will ferment, producing carbon dioxide and carbonating the cider.
– To bottle the cider, use a siphon hose to transfer the cider from the fermenter to a bottling bucket. Then, fill each bottle with the cider, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
– Cap the bottles and store them at room temperature for about 1-2 weeks. The carbonation will continue to develop during this time.

5. Enjoy your hard cider:

– After the carbonation process is complete, chill your bottles in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This will help to ensure a refreshing, fizzy drink.
– Open a bottle and enjoy your homemade hard cider. You can also experiment with different flavorings or aging techniques to create unique variations of this delightful fermented beverage.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to make hard cider from apple cider and enjoy a refreshing, homemade brew. Happy fermenting!