Steam extracted apple juice is an easy and efficient way to preserve the fresh taste of apples, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for reducing food waste and making the most of your apple harvest, this process creates a shelf-stable juice that you can enjoy all year long.
Steam extraction preserves the natural flavor and nutrients of the apples, resulting in a clear, fresh juice that’s rich in taste without the need for added preservatives or sugars. By using a fruit juice steamer, you’re also able to use the leftover pulp for other delicious recipes, like apple BBQ sauce!
Serves:
Time to Prepare:
8 people
Time to cook or cure:
8 people
Skill
Fermentation & Baking
Serves:
8 people
Time to Prepare:
20 min
Time to cook or cure:
24 hours
Skills:
Fermentation & Baking
Apples (As many as you have! The juicier the apple, the better your yield.)
Water (To keep the steamer filled about ¾ full)
Yield Estimate:
Why It’s Worth It:
The beauty of steam extracted apple juice is its shelf-stability. Due to the natural low pH of the juice, this method creates a drink that can last for months, or even longer, without refrigeration. Just ensure the bottle lids are vacuum sealed properly to guarantee freshness.
Pro Tips for Best Results:
The beauty of steam extracted apple juice is its shelf-stability. Due to the natural low pH of the juice, this method creates a drink that can last for months, or even longer, without refrigeration. Just ensure the bottle lids are vacuum sealed properly to guarantee freshness.
A: The juicier the apple, the better the yield! We recommend using cider apples or soft eating apples for the highest juice content. However, if you’re using drier apples, you may still get a decent yield, though the juice might be a bit less abundant. Don’t forget, the pulp can still be repurposed in other recipes like BBQ sauce or baked goods!
A: Absolutely! This method works great with soft fruits like grapes, pears, or strawberries. These fruits tend to yield much more juice than apples, giving you a richer flavor. Just be sure to experiment with different fruit combinations to find your perfect blend!
A: You can expect a yield of 3–5 liters of juice (or about 3–5 quarts, 70–170 fl oz). The exact yield depends on the type and juiciness of the apples you’re using. Softer apples will produce more juice, while firmer apples may give a lower yield.
A: If properly canned using the water bath canning method, steam extracted apple juice is shelf-stable and can last up to 12 months (or longer, depending on storage conditions). Make sure the bottles are vacuum sealed properly, and store them in a cool, dark place.
A: The main equipment you need is a fruit juice steamer, which includes a bottom pan for water, a middle pan for the juice, and a top fruit basket for the apples. A large pot for water canning the bottles is also required. While a blender is handy for other tasks, it’s not needed for the steaming process itself.
A: Yes! The leftover pulp from steam extraction can be used in various ways. We recommend using it to make apple BBQ sauce, apple butter, or adding it to baked goods for extra flavor and nutrition. Don’t let that good stuff go to waste!
A: While a fruit juice steamer makes the process much easier, you can still make apple juice by simmering apples in water and then straining the juice. However, the steam extraction method is more efficient and yields a cleaner, more concentrated juice without the need for blending or squeezing.
A: After water canning, check if the lids are vacuum-sealed by pressing down in the center of the lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the seal is good. If the lid pops back, it may not have sealed properly, and you’ll need to refrigerate that bottle and consume it within a few days.
A: Yes! If you prefer sweeter juice, you can add a bit of sugar, honey, or cinnamon to the juice before canning. Just keep in mind that adding sweeteners will reduce the shelf life slightly, as it can alter the juice’s acidity. For a naturally sweet flavor, though, most apples will yield a perfectly balanced taste.
A: Yes, once the juice has been opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 1-2 weeks. Always ensure that the juice is properly sealed before storing, and drink it fresh for the best taste!
A: Technically, you could use an electric burner or other heat source, but the traditional method uses a stove for consistent, even heat. If you have access to a canning stove or campfire, these can work as alternatives for outdoor juicing as well!
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