Can You Freeze Apple Cider? All You Need To Know
Yes, you can freeze apple cider. However, make sure to keep it frozen until ready to use. Once thawed, apple cider should be consumed within two weeks.
Apple Cider Vinegar has become a popular health drink around the world. They are a fall favorite for many people. But what do you do with all that cider when you can’t drink it all before it goes bad? Can you freeze apple cider?
The short answer is Yes! Freezing apple cider is a great way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it throughout the year. Here are a few tips for freezing apple cider:
How to Freeze Apple Cider
Step 1
Make sure to let the cider cool down before putting it in the freezer. This is a very important step, as putting hot cider in the freezer can alter the freezer’s temperature.
Step 2
Freeze your cider in a pint-sized and freezer-safe container or ice cube trays. You want to ensure there is enough room for expansion, so the cider doesn’t crack.
Step 3
Label each container with the date of purchase and the name of the cider. This will help you remember which one was frozen last time.
Step 4
Put the frozen cider into an airtight container and store them in the freezer. The longer they stay in the freezer, the better.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Apple Cider
There are some things you need to keep in mind when freezing apple cider:
- Ensure the apple cider is completely cold before freezing it. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing during storage.
- Don’t put too much apple cider in the freezer at once. It may expand and cause damage to the container.
- Make sure the container is sealed tightly. If not, the cider could leak out and spoil other food items stored in the same area.
- Label the container clearly with the type of cider and the date of purchase. This will make it easier to find later on.
- Store the cider in the freezer for no more than 6 months. After this period, the cider may have lost its flavor.
Using A Tupperware Container
You could put it into a Tupperware container if you first lined the inside with plastic wrap. This would prevent crystals from forming and keep them from freezing solid.
How To Thaw Frozen Nutella
If you have an unopened jar of Nutella in your fridge, you can just remove it from the fridge and let it defrost for a few minutes before opening it.
However, there is a high chance it will need a good stir because it has probably separated during the freezing process. After thawing, It should be fine for up to two weeks once.
How To Thaw Frozen Apple Cider
So, now you’ve learned how to freeze apple cider, you’ll naturally want to learn how to thaw them out. This is a simple task, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, there are several ways to thaw apples; however, they all offer pretty much the same result. You can either let your apples sit in warm water on your countertop, put them in a refrigerator, or place them in a microwave.
Let’s take a look at each method below:
Using a Refrigerator
This is probably the easiest option. Simply open up your fridge and remove the containers from the freezer. Let the cider come to room temperature while still inside the container. Then, simply transfer the cider back into your glass bottles.
Using Warm Water On Your Countertop
Another easy way to defrost your cider is by letting it sit in warm water on the countertop. Just fill a bowl with warm tap water and submerge the cider in the water. Wait about 15 minutes, then carefully lift the cider out of the water.
Microwaving
The quickest way to defrost your apple cider is by placing the cider in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave the cider on high power for about 2 minutes until it reaches room temperature.
What to Do With Frozen Apple Cider
Once you’ve had your fill of frozen apple cider, you’ll probably want to try making other beverages from it. There are several ways to turn frozen apple cider into delicious drinks.
Apple Cider Punch
This recipe makes about 12 cups of punch. It’s perfect for large parties or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1-gallon apple cider
- 2 cups sugar (or honey)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 4 oranges
Directions
- Mix fresh apple cider and lemon juice in a large punch bowl. Add cinnamon sticks and stir. Pour in ginger ale and mix thoroughly.
- For a festive punch, combine sliced apples, orange and lemon slices studded with cloves, and your desired amount of star anise. Enjoy it chilled!
Apple Cider Sangria
Sangria is a refreshing beverage made with wine, citrus fruits, and spices. If you like sangria but don’t want to spend hours preparing it, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar
- 1-quart apple cider
Directions
In a bowl, combine all ingredients except apple cider. Pour into a pitcher and add apple cider. Stir well and serve chilled.
Apple Cider Spiced Tea
Spiced tea is a classic summertime beverage. Try adding fresh apple cider to give it a unique twist.
Ingredients
- 1-quart apple cider (preferably unfiltered)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon each of nutmeg, cardamom, clove, ginger and black peppercorns
Directions
Add all ingredients to a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 10 minutes. Strain through cheesecloth and pour into mugs. Enjoy!
What Are Some Health Benefits Of Drinking Apple Cider?
Apple cider contains many health benefits, including antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. It also has a low sugar content, making it a perfect drink for diabetics.
Antioxidants
The antioxidant properties found in apple cider help protect against free radicals. These are unstable molecules that damage cells and DNA. Antioxidant compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids prevent these harmful effects.
Fiber
Fiber helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It also reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Vitamins
Vitamin C is found in apple cider. It boosts immunity and fights off colds and flu.
Low Sugar Content
While most people think of apple cider as being sweet, it actually has very little sugar. In fact, it only has around 3 grams per cup.
Healthy Alternative to Soda
Cider is a healthy alternative to soda or apple juice. It’s made from real fruits and doesn’t contain artificial ingredients or preservatives. Plus, it’s delicious!
FAQs on can you freeze apple cider
Does Freezing Affect the Taste of Apple Cider?
Freezing apple cider can affect the cider’s sweetness and overall flavor. However, these changes are typically minimal. So go ahead and enjoy that cold glass of cider on a hot day!
How Long Does Apple Cider Last After it's Opened?
Apple cider can last up to two weeks if stored properly. However, the longer it sits a room temperature, the more likely it is to develop bacteria. Make sure to keep it refrigerated at all times.