Cherry cider is a delightful twist on traditional apple cider, adding a burst of fruity flavor and a touch of tartness. Making your own cherry cider at home is surprisingly easy and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step recipe for a 1-gallon batch of cherry cider.
To start, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 gallon of apple juice (choose a high-quality, unfiltered variety for the best results)
– 2 cups of sour cherry juice (you can find this at most grocery stores or juice shops)
– 1 packet of cider yeast (choose a yeast strain that complements the fruity flavors)
Now, let's dive into the process of making cherry cider:
1. Sanitize your equipment: Before you begin, it's important to ensure that all your equipment is clean and sanitized. This will help prevent any unwanted bacteria from affecting the fermentation process. Use a sanitizer solution or follow the instructions provided with your equipment to sanitize everything thoroughly.
2. Mix the apple juice and yeast: In a clean and sanitized fermentation vessel (such as a glass carboy or plastic bucket), pour the apple juice and sprinkle the packet of cider yeast on top. Gently stir to dissolve the yeast and ensure it is evenly distributed.
3. Fermentation: Cover the vessel with an airlock or a clean cloth secured with a rubber band. Place it in a cool, dark location with a consistent temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Let the cider ferment for about 1-2 weeks, or until the specific gravity reaches around 1.000 or lower. This indicates that the majority of the sugar has been converted into alcohol.
4. Secondary fermentation: Once the primary fermentation is complete, it's time to add the cherry juice for that delicious cherry flavor. Transfer the cider to a secondary fermentation vessel, leaving behind any sediment at the bottom. Slowly pour in the sour cherry juice, ensuring it mixes well with the cider.
5. Aging and carbonation: Seal the secondary fermentation vessel with an airlock or a clean cloth. Let the cider age for another 2-4 weeks to allow the flavors to meld and for the cherry flavor to infuse into the cider. If you prefer a slightly carbonated cider, you can also add a small amount of priming sugar or carbonation drops at this stage.
6. Bottling: Once the desired flavor and carbonation level is achieved, it's time to bottle your cherry cider. Use sanitized bottles and a siphoning tube to transfer the cider from the fermentation vessel to the bottles, being careful not to disturb any sediment. Seal the bottles tightly with sanitized caps or corks.
7. Conditioning: For optimal flavor development, let the bottled cider condition for at least 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place. This will allow the carbonation to further develop and the flavors to mellow.
8. Enjoying your cherry cider: When the conditioning period is complete, your cherry cider is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it chilled and savor the unique combination of apple and cherry flavors.
Remember, homemade cherry cider may vary in taste depending on the specific apple and cherry juices used, as well as the yeast strain chosen. Feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect blend.
So, why not give this cherry cider recipe a try? With just a few simple steps, you can create a refreshing and flavorful beverage that is sure to impress your friends and family. Cheers to homemade cherry cider!
What Is Cherry Cider Made Of?
Cherry cider is made by combining apple juice with cherry juice during the fermentation process. The main ingredients used in making cherry cider include:
1. Apple Juice: The base of cherry cider is typically apple juice. You can use fresh apple juice or store-bought apple juice without any additives. Make sure the apple juice is free from preservatives, as these can hinder the fermentation process.
2. Cherry Juice: Cherry juice is added during the secondary fermentation to infuse the cider with cherry flavor. You can use pure cherry juice, which is typically made from sour cherries, or a blend of apple and cherry juice. It's important to choose a high-quality cherry juice to ensure a rich and authentic cherry taste.
3. Yeast: Yeast is essential for the fermentation process. It consumes the sugars in the apple juice and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. There are different types of yeast available, and you can choose one that suits your taste preference. Some popular choices for cider making include champagne yeast or cider yeast.
4. Sugar: Additional sugar may be added to enhance the fermentation process and increase the alcohol content. This is optional and depends on personal preference. It's recommended to use a non-fermentable sugar, such as lactose or maltodextrin, if you want to retain some sweetness in the final cider.
5. Optional Additions: While not necessary, you can add other ingredients to enhance the flavor of your cherry cider. Some common additions include spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even other fruits to create a unique blend. However, for a traditional cherry cider, the focus is primarily on the apple and cherry flavors.
It's important to note that the specific quantities of the ingredients will vary depending on the recipe you're following. Make sure to follow a trusted recipe and adjust the ingredients accordingly for the desired taste and sweetness level.
What Does Cherry Cider Taste Like?
Cherry cider offers a moderate cherry flavor, providing a distinct fruity taste reminiscent of cherries. It is slightly sour, adding a tangy element to the overall flavor profile. The carbonation level in cherry cider is low, resulting in a smoother and less fizzy experience compared to highly carbonated beverages. With a medium body, cherry cider offers a satisfying mouthfeel. The tartness of the cider is moderate, providing a pleasant balance between sweetness and acidity. To summarize the taste of cherry cider:
– Moderate cherry flavor
– Slightly sour taste
– Low carbonation
– Medium-bodied
– Moderate tartness
These characteristics combine to create a unique and enjoyable drinking experience for cherry cider enthusiasts.
Conclusion
This cherry cider recipe offers a delightful combination of apple and cherry flavors, resulting in a refreshing and delicious beverage. The use of cherry juice during secondary fermentation ensures a more pronounced cherry taste, while still allowing the apple flavors to shine through. The moderate cherry flavor adds a touch of sweetness and tartness, creating a well-balanced cider that is not overly sour.
The low carbonation and medium-bodied nature of this cider make it a perfect choice for those who prefer a smoother and more easy-drinking beverage. The Saxby's Original Cider blended with sour cherry juice is a winning combination that allows you to taste the distinct flavors of both apples and cherries.
If you are a fan of fruity ciders and enjoy the unique taste of cherries, this homemade cherry cider recipe is definitely worth a try. It offers a fresh and thirst-quenching experience that is sure to impress your taste buds. Whether you're enjoying it on a warm summer day or cozying up by the fireplace in the winter, this cherry cider is sure to delight. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of this fantastic homemade cherry cider!
