As the crisp autumn air settles in and the scent of falling leaves fills the atmosphere, nothing feels more comforting than a warm mug of homemade organic mulled apple cider paired with fresh applesauce. These two timeless autumn treats bring the flavors of the season to life, celebrating the simplicity of real, wholesome ingredients. At The Simple Pursuit, we believe in getting back to the roots of our ancestors, embracing traditions that nourish both our bodies and souls. That’s why we love sharing recipes that are not only delicious but also organic, non-toxic, and full of natural goodness.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make organic mulled apple cider from scratch using whole, peeled, and cored organic apples, and how to turn the leftover scraps into a flavorful applesauce. This sustainable approach ensures that every part of the apple is used, reducing waste while allowing you to savor autumn’s bounty in its purest form. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy fall evening or a festive gathering, these recipes will bring warmth to your home and heart.

Let’s dive into why making your own organic mulled apple cider and applesauce is a perfect way to celebrate the season!

Why Organic Mulled Apple Cider from Scratch?

Apple cider is the quintessential fall drink, and when you make it from scratch using organic apples, the flavors are unparalleled. Organic apples, free from pesticides and harmful chemicals, offer richer flavor and higher nutritional value—perfect for creating a cider that’s wholesome and naturally sweet. Making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring every sip is packed with the best of the season.

What Makes Mulled Apple Cider Special?

Mulled apple cider takes the comforting essence of fresh apple cider and elevates it with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg. These spices not only add a delicious aroma but also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, digestive support, and a cozy, uplifting mood boost. The slow simmering process fills your home with the inviting scent of autumn.

How to Make Organic Mulled Apple Cider from Scratch

Ingredients:

• 10 pounds of organic apples (peeled, cored, and quartered)
• 1-2 gallons of water (enough to cover the apples)
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 2-3 slices of fresh orange (optional for a citrusy depth)
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (optional for an extra warming kick)
• Honey or maple syrup, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and quarter 10 pounds of organic apples (my peeler slices them thinly). Place the apple pieces in a large pot and cover them with water.

Step 2: Simmer the Apples
Bring the water and apples to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the apples for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the water has turned into a rich cider.

Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the apples are fully cooked, add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and optional ginger or orange slices. Stir to combine the spices evenly. Let the cider simmer for another hour, allowing the spices to infuse.

Step 4: Strain the Cider
After simmering, strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing down on the apples to extract every last bit of liquid. Set the strained apple pulp aside for applesauce (we’ll get to that in a moment!).

Step 5: Sweeten to Taste
If desired, add honey or maple syrup to sweeten your cider. Taste and adjust to your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm mulled apple cider into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired. It’s the perfect way to embrace the cozy atmosphere of fall.

Turning Leftover Apple Scraps into Homemade Applesauce

Now that your cider is ready, don’t throw away those apple scraps! The cooked apple pulp can be transformed into a simple, delicious applesauce. This method is not only resourceful but also a great way to enjoy the full bounty of autumn apples.

Ingredients:

• Leftover apple pulp
• 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
• Water (about 1-2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Blend the Applesauce
Use an immersion blender to puree the pulp until smooth, or leave it chunky if you prefer a more rustic texture. You may need to add 1-2 cups of water (depending on consistency you prefer). Also optional, but used when canning cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

The natural sweetness of the apples combined with the spice from the cinnamon will create a delicious sauce.

Step 3: Sweeten and Adjust Flavor
Taste the applesauce and add maple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor. You can also add a dash of nutmeg to deepen the fall flavors.

Step 4: Store and Enjoy
Transfer the applesauce to jars or containers, allowing it to cool before refrigerating. If you’d like to preserve your applesauce, follow proper canning procedures.

Why Organic Mulled Apple Cider and Applesauce Are Good for You

Both organic mulled apple cider and applesauce are more than just comforting fall treats—they’re also packed with health benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants
   Organic apples and the spices used in mulled cider are high in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
2. Supports Digestion
   Apples are a great source of natural fiber, especially in applesauce. The spices in mulled cider, like cinnamon and ginger, support healthy digestion.
3. Immune-Boosting
   The vitamin C in apples and the immune-boosting properties of spices like ginger and cloves make these treats ideal for colder months when immunity needs a little extra support.

Sustainable, Wholesome, and Delicious

By making organic mulled apple cider from scratch and turning the scraps into applesauce, you’re embracing the beauty of simple, sustainable cooking. These recipes not only celebrate the flavors of the season but also honor the tradition of making the most of nature’s gifts. Whether enjoyed on a crisp fall evening or shared at a family gathering, these treats are sure to bring warmth and joy to your autumn days.