When it comes to fall drinks, apple cider is a favorite, particularly in the winter months! But what do you do when you have too much and don’t want it to go bad? That’s where you can learn how to freeze apple cider before it reaches its expiration date.
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Apple cider freezes well, and taking the time to freeze it is a great way to save space, store it for later use, and preserve it from spoiling. But, before we jump into it, there are a few things to keep in mind when freezing cider to ensure the best quality.
Read on to learn about the simple steps you need to take, and you’ll be able to enjoy delicious cider all year long!
What Is Apple Cider?
Apple cider is a name used in the United States and Canada for an unfiltered, unsweetened, non-alcoholic beverage made from apples. It’s a popular fall drink made from the juice of apples and can be enjoyed fresh or frozen.
Many people like to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a warm, autumnal flavor.
Alcoholic vs. Non-Alcoholic Cider
Many people are unaware that there are two types of cider: alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Alcoholic Cider
- Also known as hard apple cider
- Made by fermentation of the juice to create a slightly tart and bubbly drink
Non-Alcoholic Cider
- Also known as sweet cider
- Apple juice that has been pressed from apples
- Usually sweetened and can be enjoyed by all ages
Unfortunately, alcoholic cider cannot be frozen. If you attempt to freeze it, the fermentation process will cause the cider to expand and burst its container. So if you want to enjoy a cold glass of cider this fall, choose the non-alcoholic variety!
For the purpose of this post, I’ll be talking about how you can freeze non-alcoholic apple cider.
Can You Freeze Apple Cider?
Yes! You can freeze non-alcoholic apple cider, which will help to preserve its flavor and prevent it from going bad. The best way is to pour the cider into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Then, place the tray in the freezer and let the cider freeze.
Once frozen, transfer the cider cubes to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy the cider, simply thaw it out by placing the cubes in a glass or mug and letting them sit for a few minutes.
Precautions to Take
There are a few precautions to keep in mind when freezing fresh apple cider to ensure that it stays fresh and delicious:
- Be sure to use sterilized jars or bottles. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria during storage.
- Before freezing, allow the apple cider to cool down to room temperature
- Leave enough room in the containers to allow for expansion during freezing; about 3/4 of the way (tip: I recommend you don’t use a glass container as it has the potential to burst from the expansion).
- Be sure to label the cider with the date it was frozen; non-alcoholic apple cider can be stored in the freezer for up to 8 to 12 months.
How to Freeze Apple Cider
- Pour the cider into an ice cube tray and freeze for several hours.
- Once the cider is frozen, transfer the cubes to freezer bags or an airtight container.
- When ready to enjoy the cider again, simply thaw the cubes in the fridge or microwave.
This is one of the best methods to ensure that your apple cider stays fresh and delicious all season long. Suppose you plan on keeping cider in the freezer for a more extended period. In that case, the best place to store them is at the bottom of the freezer, where you would find a lower temperature.
How to Thaw Frozen Apple Cider
- One option is to simply leave the cider out at room temperature. However, this will take a few hours, so plan accordingly.
- If you’re short on time, you can also thaw the cider in the microwave. Just be sure to heat it in short bursts and frequently stir to avoid scorching.
- You could also place the frozen cider in a bowl of warm water, letting it sit until thawed. Whichever method you choose, ensure you don’t let the cider get too hot, as this can cause it to turn acidic and lose its flavor.
How Long Does Apple Cider Last Outside at Room Temperature?
Unopened apple cider usually lasts about a week at room temperature, but it can last up to two weeks if stored in a cool, dark place. If opened, it will last on average about 2-3 hours unrefrigerated.
How Long Does Apple Cider Last in the Refrigerator?
Once apple cider is opened, it will last for about a week in the refrigerator. However, apple cider will spoil more quickly if not stored properly.
To prolong apple cider’s shelf life, seal the container tightly and keep it in the fridge away from other foods with strong odors. These steps will help to keep apple cider fresh and prevent it from going bad too quickly.
How to Use Leftover Apple Cider
There are many ways to put your leftover cider to good use.
- One option is to cook with it, use it in salads, or smoothies
- Cider can be used in place of water or apple juice in many recipes, adding a bit of extra flavor
- It can also be used to make apple cider vinegar, which has various uses in cooking and cleaning
- If you’re looking for a simple way to enjoy your cider, try freezing it into ice cubes
- These apple cider cubes can then be added to sparkling water or used in place of plain ice cubes in cocktails
How Do You Know If It’s Bad?
Although apple cider is a fairly shelf-stable product, it can go bad if it’s not stored correctly. The easiest way to tell if apple cider has gone bad is to sniff it.
If it smells sour or off, it should be thrown out. You can also give the cider a taste; if it tastes sour or vinegary, it’s time to say goodbye.
Another sign that apple cider has gone bad is the presence of mold. If you see any mold growing on the surface of the cider, it’s best to discard the entire container. So, if in doubt, throw it out!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does frozen apple cider last?
Non-alcoholic apple cider will last for up to 8 to 12 months in the freezer.
Can I freeze apple cider without sugar?
Yes, you can freeze apple cider without sugar. However, it may not be as sweet once thawed.
I accidentally left my apple cider out overnight. Is it still safe to drink?
If your apple cider was stored at room temperature, it’s best to throw it out. However, if it is stored in the fridge, it should be safe to consume. Just be sure to check for signs of spoilage before drinking.
My apple cider has chunks of ice in it. Is this normal?
Yes, it’s normal for apple cider to have chunks of ice in it. These are called “ice crystals” and are perfectly safe to consume.
I’m not ready to drink my frozen apple cider yet. Can I refreeze it?
No, I wouldn’t recommend it.
I don’t have a lot of space in my freezer. Can I just freeze half of my apple cider?
Yes, you can freeze half of your apple cider. Just be sure to use it within three months for the best flavor.
Summary
Freezing apple cider is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it all winter. Just be sure to use proper storage techniques and consume it within 8 to 12 months.
Do you have any other tips for freezing apple cider? Leave a comment and let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
