Step 1: Select and Prepare the Apples

Choose a variety of sweet, tart, and aromatic apples for a complex flavor profile.

Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 2: Chop the Apples

Core and chop the apples into small pieces. You can leave the peels on for added flavor and color.

Step 3: Extract the Juice

Place the chopped apples in a large pot or cider press.

Use a cider press or a juicer to extract the juice from the apples. If using a pot, you can mash the apples with a potato masher or spoon to release the juices.

Step 4: Strain the Juice

Strain the apple juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or solids.

Step 5: Sweeten and Spice (Optional)

If desired, add sugar to sweeten the cider to taste. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Add spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or nutmeg for added flavor. Simmer the cider with the spices for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 6: Fermentation (Optional)

If you’re making fermented cider, transfer the strained juice to a clean, sterilized fermentation vessel.

Add cider yeast according to the package instructions to kickstart the fermentation process.

Seal the vessel with an airlock and let it ferment at room temperature for several weeks, until it reaches your desired level of sweetness and carbonation.

Step 7: Bottle and Store

Once the cider is ready, bottle it in clean, sterilized bottles or jars.

Store the cider in the refrigerator to halt fermentation and preserve freshness.

Step 8: Enjoy

Serve the Swiss apple cider chilled or warmed, depending on your preference.

Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice for an extra touch of flavor.

Savor the crisp, refreshing taste of homemade Swiss apple cider and toast to the flavors of autumn in Switzerland!

With these simple steps, you can create a delicious batch of homemade Swiss apple cider that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Cheers to the joys of cider making and the bounty of the Swiss countryside!