As the air turns crisp and the foliage begins to change, it signals the arrival of a delightful seasonal favorite—it’s apple cider time! Forget pumpkin spice; it’s all about the refreshing allure of cider.
Whether enjoyed as sweet, tangy apple juice or the more robust hard cider, this versatile beverage finds its way into drinks, baked goods, candles, and beyond. Here are several reasons why cider season ranks among our most cherished times of the year.
1. Simple to Prepare
This is the time of year when cider becomes quite affordable. Typically, I can grab all the ingredients needed for a week’s worth of cider for under $10 at my local grocery store—prices vary based on brand and special attributes like being organic or spiced. One of the best parts of cider season is the ability to craft it myself.
I enjoy a straightforward cider recipe that’s delightful on its own, yet allows for creative add-ins. I’ve experimented with chai spices, cinnamon, ginger, and even a hint of curry (with caution!). It’s rewarding to discover new flavor combinations without breaking the bank. Plus, there’s no need to peel any apples! (For more inspiration, check out: 18 Simple and Delicious Ways to Enjoy Apples)
2. Create Your Own Hard Cider
Hard cider is a year-round indulgence I cherish. I must admit, crafting it requires a greater commitment compared to regular cider. However, if you have access to basic brewing equipment like a demijohn, rubber stopper, airlock, and siphon hose, it becomes one of the simpler brewing endeavors.
With an abundance of recipes available, this hard cider recipe is among my favorites, as it doesn’t necessitate an apple press and guides you in preparing both sweet and dry versions.
3. Utilize a Slow Cooker
Cider isn’t just delightful in a cup; it also doubles as a fantastic holiday home fragrance. I love tossing a batch into my slow cooker, adding spices, and letting it simmer with the lid off. We savor it slowly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that lingers until the last drop.
From traditional spiced cider to a pumpkin spice twist, the possibilities are endless.
4. Transform it into Apple Cider Vinegar
Though it’s not a direct offshoot of apple cider, I often prepare vinegar along with my autumn beverages. Many advocate for the health benefits of apple cider vinegar, but I mainly appreciate it for use in recipes and salad dressings. Utilizing apple scraps for its creation makes cider season the perfect time to prepare a batch. It’s a reliable process; just follow the recipe, give it time, and enjoy the results. (Also see: 12 Fantastic Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar)
5. Craft Apple Cider Soup
This may sound unusual, but hang tight. I discovered apple cider soup a few years ago after making more cider than we could drink. You can mix apple cider with beef or chicken stock to create a unique soup base. Add any other ingredients you fancy, and you’ll end up with an inventive and delicious holiday soup that everyone will love.
6. Enhance Sauces with Cider
An additional way I’ve incorporated cider into meals is by adding it to sauces. Whether you’re making pancakes, incorporate it into the syrup; if it’s dinner time, mix it with gravy. These are merely starting points; cider can uplift virtually any sauce. Its flavor is subtle and doesn’t overshadow other spices, yet it certainly contributes a distinctive touch to your culinary creations.
You can also utilize cider as a marinade for various proteins. I’ve infused chicken, pork chops, and even short ribs with it. Although the cider’s flavor might be fleeting after cooking, it enriches the overall taste and texture—something I’ve not managed to replicate elsewhere. (Also check out: 11 Instant Pot Meals That Prove Autumn Is the Best Season)
7. Create Your Own Apple Cider Crisp
What’s autumn without savoring an excellent apple crisp? By incorporating cider, you can elevate a classic dish to new heights. After all, why not amplify the apple flavor?
8. Spice Up Quinoa
Cooking quinoa in apple cider, combined with sweet potatoes and various add-ins, transforms this dish into a quintessential autumn delight. Although the cider flavor may be less pronounced here, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy cider while maintaining a healthy diet!
9. Improve Scalloped Potatoes
Everyone appreciates scalloped potatoes as they are. Yet, introducing cider? Absolutely yes! This ingredient combination yields some of the finest scalloped potatoes I’ve experienced. The addition of cider and nutmeg creates a richer, earthier flavor profile, enhancing the essence of both the potatoes and the cheese that you won’t want to miss out on.
Enjoyed this article? Pin it!
