Homemade Applesauce
This easy homemade applesauce is made on the stove, naturally sweetened, and comes together with minimal prep.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples select sweet, firm apples
- 1 cup 100% apple juice
- 1-2 teaspoons cinnamon optional
Instructions
- Prepare Apples. Wash and dry the apples. Remove the cores, then cut the apples into 2-inch chunks. There is no need to peel unless desired.
- Simmer. Place apples in a heavy-bottomed stock pan. Add the apple juice and cinnamon if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer partially covered for 1-2 hours, or until the apples have completely broken down and the skin is soft, stirring every 5-10 minutes.
- Blend Applesauce. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the apples to a blender or food processor fitted with an S-blade, leaving the cooking liquid in the pan. Leave the lid cracked open slightly and blend until you reach the desired consistency. If needed, add some of the reserved cooking liquid to help achieve a smooth applesauce.
- Serve/Store. Serve warm or cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container or jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Apples: I recommend sweet, firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Cortland, and Golden Delicious. If desired, add one or two Granny Smith apples for a bit of tartness, but using too many can make the applesauce quite tart.
Freeze: Once the applesauce has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving 1 inch of space for expansion, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Liquid: Instead of apple juice, you can use apple cider as the cooking liquid. You can use water as well, but it will not add as much natural sweetness to the applesauce.
Peeling Apples: I do not peel apples because I blend applesauce to be smooth, and I want the added nutrients found in the skins. If you don't want to blend your applesauce and prefer a chunky consistency, peel your apples.
Nutrition
Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Vitamin C: 5.5mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 0.2mg
