Apple season is here, and it is the perfect time to use the fruit God has provided fully.
On the homestead, this season is a reminder of His abundant provision and the blessing of being able to enjoy the fruits of our labor. Whether you are picking crisp apples from your own trees or supporting a local orchard, there is so much you can do with these versatile fruits. From homemade applesauce to fresh apple cider vinegar, every part of the apple can be used thoughtfully, reflecting the principles of stewardship that God calls us to embrace.
Using the entire apple, from the flesh to the cores and peels, is more than just a practical choice but it is a spiritual practice. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 104:14, “He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth.” By making the most of God’s gifts, we honor Him and show gratitude for the resources He provides.
In this post, we will explore ways to process apples into applesauce, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, and even hard cider, while keeping faith and stewardship at the heart of the homesteading journey. I will expand on this at a later time. In the meantime, send your experiences to us below in the comments.
Let’s get into it.
Applesauce
Ingredients and Steps
- Wash and core the apples.
- Cut apples into chunks.
- Cook in a pot with a small amount of water until soft.
- Mash or blend to desired consistency.
- Sweeten lightly or leave unsweetened.
- Store in the refrigerator or process in jars for longer storage.
Scripture Reflection:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31.
Making applesauce is a simple way to honor God by stewarding His provision carefully and creatively.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Ingredients and Steps
- Collect apple scraps, peels, and cores.
- Place in a clean jar and cover with water.
- Add one tablespoon of sugar to feed natural fermentation.
- Cover with a breathable cloth and secure with a rubber band.
- Let sit at room temperature 2–3 weeks, stirring daily.
- Taste periodically. When it reaches the desired acidity, strain and bottle.
- If canning, use an acid test kit to ensure safe acidity.
Scripture Reflection:
“Whoever is faithful with very little is faithful also with much.” — Luke 16:10.
Using apple scraps and peels demonstrates faithfulness in stewardship, honoring God with what might otherwise be discarded.
Apple Juice
Ingredients and Steps
- Wash, core, and cut apples into chunks.
- Press or blend apples to extract juice.
- Strain through fine mesh or cheesecloth.
- Heat juice to a simmer to pasteurize, or keep raw and refrigerate.
Scripture Reflection:
“And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth… for food.’” — Genesis 1:29.
Enjoying the natural goodness of fresh apple juice reminds us of God’s abundant provision.
Hard Cider
Ingredients and Steps
- Extract fresh apple juice.
- Add cider or wine yeast.
- Ferment according to instructions, usually 1–2 weeks.
- Bottle and allow to age several weeks before drinking.
Scripture Reflection:
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” — Proverbs 20:1.
Homesteading allows for enjoyment of God’s creation in balance and wisdom, always with stewardship in mind.
Stewardship of God’s Creation
Homesteading involves stewardship of God’s creation. Psalm 104:14 reminds us:
“He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth.”
Using all parts of the apple reflects this principle. As we carefully utilize every resource, we honor God and His gifts to us.
Share Your Experience
If you have made applesauce, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, or hard cider or have a special recipe you use your apples for, I would love to hear your experiences and tips in the comments.
Let’s encourage one another in faithful stewardship and creative homesteading.
A Call to Salvation
God provides abundantly, not just in apples or harvests, but in eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9 tells us:
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
If you have not yet received Christ, you can pray this simple prayer:
Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, I believe that You are the Son of God. I confess my sins and ask You to forgive me. I believe You died for me and rose again. Come into my life, be my Lord and Savior, and help me live for You every day. Amen.”
If you prayed this prayer, I encourage you to reach out to a local church, a Bible study, or even leave a comment below. We are here to fellowship, pray, and grow in Christ together.
Until next time, my friend.
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