Homemade Applesauce

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and healthy snack. The natural sweetness of the apples shines through without any added sugars, and the addition of spices adds a comforting depth of flavor. It’s easy to make, and I can enjoy it warm or chilled, depending on my mood.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4–5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, I combine the chopped apples and water.

2. I bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the apples are soft and easily mashed.

3. I remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice if using.

4. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, I mash or blend the apples to my desired consistency—chunky or smooth.

5. I let the applesauce cool before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of applesauce. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Spiced Applesauce: I add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a more robust flavor.

• Berry Applesauce: I mix in a handful of fresh or frozen berries during cooking for a fruity twist.

• Chunky Applesauce: I mash the apples lightly to retain some chunks for texture.

• Smooth Applesauce: I blend the mixture thoroughly for a silky-smooth consistency.

• Citrus Zest: I add a bit of orange or lemon zest for a bright, zesty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooled applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, I freeze it in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. To reheat, I warm the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, I can use any variety of apples. Combining sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith can add depth to the flavor.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients, but it will result in a more textured applesauce. If I prefer a smoother consistency, I peel the apples.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours, then mash or blend to my desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for babies?

Yes, this unsweetened applesauce is suitable for babies. I ensure to use mild spices or omit them entirely, depending on my baby’s tolerance.

Can I can this applesauce for long-term storage?

Yes, I can preserve the applesauce by following proper canning procedures, ensuring sterilized jars and appropriate processing times.

Conclusion

This homemade unsweetened applesauce is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to my culinary repertoire. It’s versatile, allowing me to enjoy it as a snack, a side dish, or an ingredient in baking. By making it myself, I control the ingredients and customize the flavors to my liking.

Homemade Applesauce

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• Author: Mia
• Total Time: ~30 minutes
• Yield: ~2 cups
• Diet: Vegan

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Ingredients

4–5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

½ cup water

½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples and water.

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until apples are soft.

Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using).

Mash with a potato masher for chunky applesauce or blend with an immersion blender for smooth consistency.

Cool before transferring to an airtight container.

Notes

Spiced variation: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for more depth.

Berry applesauce: Add berries during cooking for a fruity twist.

Chunky or smooth: Adjust texture based on preference.

Citrus flavor: Stir in orange or lemon zest.

Store in fridge up to 7 days or freeze for 3 months.

Reheat gently on stove or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snack, Side Dish
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American