Homemade Applesauce Recipe
Introduction
Homemade applesauce is a comforting and versatile treat that’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. It offers a naturally sweet and cinnamon-spiced flavor perfect as a snack or a side dish.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and chopped, about 6 medium)
- ⅓ cup water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the peeled, cored, and chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Step 2: Reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the saucepan. Cook for 15–20 minutes or until the apples are very tender.
- Step 3: Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the mixture slightly.
- Step 4: Mash the apples with a potato masher for a chunky texture, or blend with an immersion blender for a smooth applesauce.
- Step 5: Serve the applesauce warm or chilled, according to your preference.
Tips & Variations
- For a tangier sauce, try mixing different apple varieties such as Granny Smith with sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth and flavor.
- If you prefer a sugar-free version, omit the sugar as some apple varieties are sweet enough on their own.
Storage
Store applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apples with the skins on?
You can leave the skins on for extra fiber and color, but the texture may be chunkier. Peeling gives a smoother applesauce.
How do I prevent my applesauce from becoming watery?
Simmer with the lid off for the last few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate and thicken the sauce.
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Homemade Applesauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This homemade applesauce recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh apples. Made with just a few ingredients including apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be served warm or chilled. Perfect as a healthy snack or a side dish, this applesauce offers a comforting taste of fall with natural sweetness and warm spices.
Ingredients
Applesauce Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6 medium apples)
- ⅓ cup water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the peeled, cored, and chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon into a medium saucepan.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are very tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove the lid and continue to simmer the applesauce for an additional 5 minutes to reduce excess liquid and thicken the texture.
- Mash or Blend: For a chunky texture, mash the apples with a potato masher. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy the applesauce warm immediately or let it cool and serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- You can adjust the sugar amount to your preferred sweetness level or omit it for a naturally sweetened version.
- Different apple varieties will affect the flavor and sweetness; try using a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best taste.
- For a spiced variation, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
- Applesauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
- Use organic apples if preferred for a more natural flavor and fewer pesticides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: applesauce, homemade applesauce, easy applesauce recipe, stovetop applesauce, cinnamon applesauce
