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–+ servings

Boiled Cider (Apple Cider Syrup)

Two glass bottles, one filled with brown liquid labeled "Boiled Apple Cider," stand on a cloth with a cinnamon stick. A white bowl filled with red apples is beside them, set against a rustic wooden background.
A rich, velvety apple cider syrup that captures the essence of fall in every spoonful! This homemade boiled cider syrup is like liquid gold—thick, tangy-sweet, and packed with deep apple flavor.
Sarah Allison
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes
Serving Size 16

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan
  • Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
  • Glass jar (for storage)

Ingredients

  • 1 quart 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 1 cinnamon stick or 1 vanilla bean split lengthwise (Optional)

Instructions

  • Pour the apple cider into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick or vanilla bean, if using.
  • Heat over medium-high until the cider reaches a boil.
  • Lower the heat to simmer, uncovered, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • The cider is ready when reduced to about 1 cup to 1 1/4 cups and has a syrupy consistency similar to warm honey.

Test for doneness:

  • Dip a cold spoon into the syrup—it should coat the back of the spoon.
  • Look for dark copper-colored bubbles forming across the surface when stirred.
  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer if desired.
  • Transfer to a clean glass jar and refrigerate. The syrup will thicken as it cools.
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Notes

Yield: Approximately 1 to 1 1/4 cups of boiled cider syrup. 
  • Use Fresh Apple Cider – Avoid apple juice, as it lacks the depth of flavor needed for this recipe.
  • Consistency Guide – The syrup should have a honey-like texture when warm and will thicken as it cools.
  • Storage Tips – Keep in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 12 months; the high sugar content acts as a natural preservative.
  • How to Fix Overcooked Syrup – If too thick, reheat gently with a splash of fresh cider until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Scaling the Recipe – You can double this recipe, but use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to allow for even evaporation.
  • Uses – Perfect in baking, glazes, marinades, and beverages. Try it in Apple Cider Muffins or Apple Cider Whoopie Pies for an enhanced apple flavor.