Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade applesauce recipe is quick, easy, and versatile. It lets you embrace the essence of autumn with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples. It’s not only a healthy snack but also a perfect topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or even as a side dish with pork. The best part? It’s made with natural ingredients, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade treat without any artificial preservatives or added sugars.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Combine Ingredients
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, apple cider vinegar, and water. - Initial Cooking
Cook over low heat, stirring often to prevent burning, until the apples start to soften, about 4 minutes. - Simmer
Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. - Add Spices
Uncover, stir in the cinnamon and salt, cover again, and continue simmering for an additional 10 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and beginning to fall apart. - Mash
Remove the pot from the heat and use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a smoother applesauce, pulse it in a food processor or blend it with an immersion blender.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 6 cups of applesauce
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Sweet and Tart Blend: Mix sweet apples like Fuji with tart ones like Granny Smith for a well-balanced flavor.
- Spiced Applesauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for a deeper spice profile.
- Honey Sweetened Applesauce: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup during the simmering process for a touch of extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Homemade applesauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the applesauce in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for applesauce?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples, but a mix of sweet and tart apples (such as Fuji and Granny Smith) will give you a nicely balanced applesauce. Sweet apples like Gala will make a milder sauce, while tart apples like Braeburn or Jonagold will create a tangier flavor.
How long does homemade applesauce last?
Homemade applesauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option. It can stay in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Can I sweeten my applesauce?
Yes, if you prefer a sweeter applesauce, you can add sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar to taste. Stir them in while the apples are simmering for the best results.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
While peeling apples is not strictly necessary, it does make for a smoother applesauce. If you prefer a chunkier, rustic texture, you can leave the skins on and blend them in, or use a food mill after cooking.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to add a variety of spices like nutmeg, cloves, or vanilla extract for a unique twist. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Conclusion
This homemade applesauce recipe is a cozy, easy-to-make treat that captures the essence of fall in every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it as a healthy snack, using it as a topping for your favorite dishes, or simply indulging in its natural sweetness, this applesauce is a true fall delight. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this homemade applesauce and savor the flavors of autumn all year round.
Homemade Applesauce Recipe for Fall Flavors
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups of applesauce
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade applesauce recipe brings the comforting flavors of fall to your kitchen. Made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, this applesauce is perfect as a snack or topping for various dishes.
Ingredients
4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
⅓ cup water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, apple cider vinegar, and water.
- Cook over low heat, stirring often to prevent burning, until the apples start to soften, about 4 minutes.
- Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Uncover, stir in the cinnamon and salt, cover again, and continue simmering for an additional 10 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and beginning to fall apart.
- Remove the pot from the heat and use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a smoother applesauce, pulse it in a food processor or blend it with an immersion blender.
Notes
Mix sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor, such as Fuji and Granny Smith.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a spiced version.
Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
