Delicious and Unexpected Uses for Apple Cider

Apple cider is a must when fall rolls around, but why reserve it for your glass? There are actually a number of wonderful ways to use apple cider in your recipes. Whether you're cooking chicken or making cakes, this is one ingredient that adds a delicious flavor without a lot of work. Here are just a few of the ways you can use apple cider in your kitchen.

Glaze for Baked Goods

People often glaze their cakes in lemon or orange glaze, but why not use apple cider glaze to jazz up your fall recipes? To make the glaze you'll need one cup of powdered sugar and one tablespoon of apple cider. Simply stir the apple cider into the powdered sugar until a glaze forms. If a glaze doesn't form, add a bit more cider. This glaze works perfectly on spice cakes, sugar cookies and even pecan pies. With some baked goods you may even want to top the glaze with toasted pecans or walnuts for added flavor.

Marinade for Chicken or Turkey Breast

Apple cider isn't just for sweet treats. Apple cider can also be used to add a delicious flavor to meats. To create a marinade for chicken breasts, or a boneless turkey breast, mix one cup of apple cider with a quarter-cup of chopped red onion, a tablespoon of chopped fresh sage, sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper. This marinade works well with roasted or grilled meats.

Gravy

Last, but not least, apple cider adds a wonderful flavor to gravy. To prepare this gravy, start by melting four tablespoons of butter in a medium sauce pan. Once the butter is melted, whisk in four tablespoons of flour and continue cooking until the flour smells slightly nutty. Next, slowly whisk in four cups of chicken stock along with one cup of apple cider. You can then flavor the gravy with sea salt, fresh cracked black pepper and fresh sage, to taste. This is a great substitute for the traditional gravy served at Thanksgiving. Your guests will enjoy the unexpected flavors and it pairs beautifully with a turkey breast that has been marinaded in apple cider.

Don't stash your apple cider in the refrigerator as a refreshing fall drink. Instead, use it to make recipes that are unexpected and sure to be a delight with your guests. Who knows? You may create the next big favorite in your house.

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