Homemade Apple Sauce
Applesauce is the easiest way to eat an apple-a-day!The easiest way to cook apples, and a favorite for all ages. Use any variety or a mix of several—the more flavorful the apples, the better the sauce! Serve as a side dish with any meal, and as garnish, snack or dessert. Serve warm or chilled.
Ingredients
- 6-8 apples any variety-a mix of tart and sweet is best
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1-2 tbsp honey or sugar (optional; depending on the apples. Taste and add if needed as the apples cook.)
Instructions
- Peel and core apples and cut into 1/2 to 3/4 “ slices or cubes. Mix in lemon juice.
- Place in saucepan with 1/2 cup water; apples will release more liquid as they cook. Add cinnamon and optional sweetener. Simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 min, or until apples are soft. Add lemon, spice and sweetener as needed, to taste.
- For chunky applesauce, stir and let cool.
- For a smoother sauce, cook 5-10 minutes more, stirring to blend.
- For an extra smooth texture, pulse in blender or press the sauce through a mesh strainer. If you plan to strain or blend the sauce, cook with the peels on for added flavor and color.
Notes
Double or triple the ingredient amounts for a larger batch; keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations: Instead of cinnamon, try cardamom, nutmeg your favorite savory spice blend. Or add a sprig or two of lemon verbena or thyme with mild-flavored apples, or for more intensely-flavored fruit, try rosemary or basil.