Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Special equipment needed:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the apple cider, sugar, vanilla bean and seeds, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced by about half.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
6. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container.
7. Discard the solids.
8. Let the syrup cool completely before using or storing.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of syrup
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 50
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Ground cinnamon can be used instead of a cinnamon stick.
- Vanilla extract can be used instead of a vanilla bean.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of ground cloves for a spicier flavor.
- Use pear cider instead of apple cider for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult version of the syrup.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- Let the syrup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Warm the syrup before serving for a cozy winter treat.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Warm the syrup in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the syrup in a small pitcher or syrup dispenser alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Pairings:
Pair with pancakes, waffles, French toast, or oatmeal.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with bacon or sausage.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the syrup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it has thickened to your liking.
- If the syrup is too thick, add a splash of water or apple cider to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to let the syrup cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
Food history:
Cider syrup has been a popular condiment for pancakes and waffles in New England for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
The syrup has a sweet and slightly tart apple flavor with warm notes of vanilla and cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Drizzle the syrup over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a delicious breakfast treat.
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