Hard Apple Cider Recipe

How to Make Hard Apple Cider

1. Dissolve one Campden tablet per gallon of apple juice in a cup of warm water. Add this solution to your primary fermenter containing your fresh apple juice.
2. Let the mixture stand overnight (approximately 8-12 hours).
3. Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT yeast, ensuring everything is thoroughly dissolved. Sprinkle yeast evenly over the juice, cover the fermenter with a plastic sheet or airlock, and let ferment for 3-5 days at room temperature (68-72°F).
4. Carefully rack (siphon) the cider into a secondary fermenter and attach an airlock. Allow for continued fermentation.
5. Rack the cider again after 3 weeks. This helps clarify the cider.
6. Once fermentation is complete (no more bubbling), transfer the cider to a clean sanitized vessel. Add 2 oz of white sugar per gallon and gently stir until dissolved.
7. Bottle the cider immediately after mixing the sugar. Allow to age for at least 3 months in a cool, dark place. Longer aging will improve the flavor and complexity of your cider.
8. Enjoy your crisp, carbonated hard apple cider!
9. Note: Adjust sugar quantity for desired sweetness and alcohol content. A range of 1/2 to 1 pound of sugar per gallon (4 liters) is recommended, but don't exceed 2 pounds per 5 liters.