Have you ever looked closely at the juice aisle of your favorite grocery store and seen two different bottles labeled as “apple” products? One might say “Apple Juice,” while the other says “Apple Cider.” Surely these can’t be too different, right? Well, as it turns out, there are quite a few differences between apple cider and apple juice.
It is important to know how is apple cider different from apple juice. Whether you already have one or both of them in your refrigerator at home or if you’re considering which one to pick up next time you’re grocery shopping, understanding how they are different can be helpful! In this blog post, we’ll explore exactly what each of these beverages is and why their differences do matter.
Summary: Apple cider and apple juice are both made from apples, but they are different in taste, processing, and nutritional value. Apple cider is made from freshly pressed apples, while apple juice is filtered, refined, and pasteurized, which gives it a longer shelf life. Cider has a deeper and more intense flavor that reflects the character of the apples used, while apple juice is generally sweeter and more diluted in taste.
How is Apple Cider Made?
Apple cider is the beverage of the fall season. People have been making it for centuries and its popularity has only grown in recent years. The process of making apple cider starts by washing and shredding apples with a mill. Then, the apples are covered in sugar, lemon juice, and spices to make them taste sweet and tangy.
The mashed apples are then left to ferment for one or two weeks. During fermentation, natural yeasts from the air convert the sugars from apple sweetness into alcohol which is what gives cider its flavor.
After fermentation is complete, the mixture is filtered and bottled. This removes any impurities that were created during the fermentation process, resulting in a full-bodied drink that will pair perfectly with a crisp autumn day.
The History of Apple Cider
The history of apple cider dates back centuries and has been enjoyed all over the world. Apples first appeared in Europe sometime between 1500-1000 BC with the Romans and Celts popularizing the consumption of fermented and unfermented cider.
Apple trees were also grown in India, China, Tibet, and even North America before colonization. Cider became a popular drink in England around the 17th century and was brought to colonial America by English settlers who set up large-scale orchards due to the apple’s prolific nature.
The newly formed United States quickly adopted cider as a staple beverage and within a few decades, cider had become more popular than beer. By the mid-19th century, however, temperance movements led to a decline in apple cider consumption.
How is Apple Cider Different From Apple Juice
1. Apple Cider is Made by Crushing Apples, Apple Juice is Usually Made From Pressed and Filtered Apples
Enjoying a glass of freshly-made apple cider or juice is a pleasure that many of us love. The two drinks have similar origins: made from apples! But there is one major difference between the two – while the production process of apple cider involves crushing apples.
The vast majority of apple juice made today is produced with a different method. That method involves pressing and filtering apples, which brings out more juice than simply crushing them.
Both options provide an unbeatable taste when it comes to apple-based beverages and no matter which you prefer, you won’t be disappointed if you choose either!
2. Apple Cider Can Contain Up to 8% Alcohol, Apple Juice Contains No Alcohol
Apple cider and apple juice are closely related, however, there is an important difference that people should be aware of – their alcoholic content. Apple cider can contain up to 8% alcohol, making it an alcoholic drink, while apple juice does not contain any alcohol whatsoever.
People need to bear this in mind when serving drinks or purchasing them at a store. Knowing the difference between the two can help ensure that you stay within the law if you’re buying cider for minors.
Additionally, it allows people to make an informed decision regarding their choice of beverage, depending on personal preference and what they feel comfortable drinking.
3. Apple Cider is Typically Left Unfiltered After Fermentation, Giving It More of a Cloudy Appearance Than Apple Juice
Apple cider is a type of beverage that deliciously combines the sweetness of apple juice with the tartness of the wine. Unlike apple juice which is processed, strained, and pasteurized to give it a clear appearance, cider has a cloudy appearance because it is usually left unfiltered after fermentation.
This step gives the cider a unique tasting profile which has become favored by many who try it. Those of us looking for a refreshing beverage could certainly enjoy this natural combination of sweet and sour.
4. Apple Cider Has a More Complex, Tart Flavor Than Apple Juice Which is Usually Very Sweet
Apple cider is a unique and complex beverage with a tart flavor. Derived from apples, it has a different taste than its cousin, apple juice. While most people view apple juice as a sweet-tasting treat, they’ve likely never tried unsweetened apple cider.
This type of cider contains higher levels of acid compared to the juice, making it have an entirely different flavor profile which can be difficult to compare to any other type of apple product. Though some might take some time to adjust due to their sharper taste, tasting apple cider could be beneficial in opening up new taste preferences possibilities.
5. Apple Cider is Typically Spiced With Cinnamon, Allspice, Nutmeg, or Other Spices to Give It a Unique Flavor Profile
Apple cider is a well-loved drink, enjoyed throughout autumn and winter. Its signature taste comes from the spices added to it – usually cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, or other spices. Whether ingested hot or cold, adding these spices ensures that apple cider is even more full of flavor, aromatic, and enjoyable than it already is.
For a unique spice blend and flavor profile, try adding mixed spice to your apple cider; an aromatic combination of nutmeg, mace, coriander seed, cinnamon, and ginger!
6. Apple Cider Can Be Enjoyed Hot or Cold, While Apple Juice is Typically Served Cold
Apple cider and apple juice might share a similar flavor, but they are two different drinks. Apple cider is typically made from pressed apples and has a unique, tart taste to it.
It’s delicious both hot and cold but many people prefer it warm during the chilly autumn months. On the other hand, apple juice is usually processed with heat and filtered pulp to produce a sweeter version of the drink–the filtering process can also remove some essential vitamins.
Because of its smoother consistency and natural sweetness, it’s most often served cold as an invigorating refreshment on hot days. For any apple-lover, exploring the nuances between these two types of beverages can be an interesting culinary journey.
So there you have it! How is Apple Cider Different From Apple Juice? Although the two products are both made from apples, they come out with different flavors and uses in the end due to the distinct processes of making them. If you’re looking for something lighter and more refreshing, try some apple juice! Either way, you can’t go wrong with either drink. Enjoy!
Different Types of Apple Cider
1. Traditional Apple Cider
Traditional apple cider is made from a blend of different types of apples, including both sweet and tart varieties. The apples are juiced and then fermented with yeast, which converts the sugar in the juice into alcohol. The cider is then bottled and typically served chilled.
2. Hard Apple Cider
Hard apple cider is made in a similar way to traditional cider, but it contains a higher level of alcohol content. The fermentation process is allowed to continue for a longer period, resulting in a beverage that contains anywhere from 4-8% alcohol by volume. Hard apple cider is typically served over ice or straight from the bottle.
3. Spiced Apple Cider
Spiced apple cider is made by adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to traditional cider. The spices give the cider a warm, festive flavor that is perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Spiced apple cider can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference.
4. Mulled Apple Cider
Mulled apple cider is made by heating spiced cider on the stove until it is hot but not boiling. This type of cider is often served at holiday parties and other festive occasions. Mulled apple cider can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed.
5. Caramel Apple Cider
Caramel apple cider is made by adding caramel syrup or candy to traditional apple cider. This type of cider is sweet and rich, and the caramel gives it a lovely golden color. Caramel apple cider can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference.
6. Green Apple Cider
Green apple cider is made by adding green apples to the traditional blend of sweet and tart apples used to make regular cider. This type of cider has a slightly sour flavor and a bright green color. Green apple cider can be served chilled or over ice.
How to Make Your Own Apple Cider?
Making your apple cider can be a rewarding experience and surprisingly simple. Start by selecting ripe apples, such as McIntosh or Golden Delicious. Wash and quarter the apples, removing any stems and leaves.
Place them in a large pot, add enough water to cover the apples, and bring everything to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low-medium and let simmer until the apples are completely soft.
Strain the mixture into another pot while pressing down firmly on the fruit chunks with a spoon or ladle. It is where you’ll get all that goodness out! Once strained, return the liquid to the pot and continue heating until it reduces in volume by half.
At this point, you can add flavorings such as spices, sugar, or honey if desired. Now let everything cool down before diligently pouring through a sieve one more time! Enjoy your freshly made apple cider!
Conclusion
Though they both come from apples, apple cider and apple juice are two very different beverages. Apple cider is made by crushing apples and then allowing the juices to ferment, while apple juice is made simply by juicing apples.
This fermentation process gives apple cider a more complex flavor than apple juice, as well as a slightly higher alcohol content. So, if you’re looking for a unique fall beverage to serve at your next party, go with apple cider!
You should carefully determine how is apple cider different from apple juice. Just be sure to check the label – some commercially produced ciders have added sugar or artificial flavors that take away from the natural taste of the drink.
