Ingredients
Fruits
- 10 pears, halved
- 1 orange, sliced
Spices and Sweeteners
- 4 cinnamon sticks (or 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon)
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 vanilla bean pod, split
- ½ cup light brown sugar (can substitute with white granulated sugar, honey, or agave)
Liquids
- 10 cups water
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Pot: Place the pear halves and orange slices into a large stockpot. Pour in the water, then add the brown sugar and all the spices including cinnamon sticks, ground allspice, whole cloves, and the split vanilla bean pod.
- Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil, keeping the pot uncovered. Allow it to boil for 1 hour so the flavors meld and the fruit softens.
- Simmer: After boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 2 hours. This slow cooking deepens the flavor.
- Mash the Fruit: Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, mash the fruits in the pot to release their juices and enhance the cider’s richness.
- Strain and Serve: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids, leaving behind a smooth, fragrant cider. Discard the solids and serve warm.
Notes
- For a stronger spice flavor, add an extra cinnamon stick or increase the cloves slightly.
- You can adjust sweetness by using more or less sugar or substituting with honey or agave syrup.
- Serve warm or chilled; it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- This cider can be lightly heated before serving if stored cold.
- Consider garnishing with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
