I don’t know why I never thought of making homemade applesauce before. I’ve been buying the store-bought stuff for so long that it’s almost automatic for me to grab a couple of jars every time I go to the store. It’s so much cheaper to buy a big bag of apples and make it myself, though, and it tastes so much better!
What’s in This Homemade Applesauce Recipe?
Apples: You’ll need 4 pounds of apples for this recipe. Choose an apple variety that works well in cooking recipes. Try fuji, granny smith, or gala. Removing the peels results in a smoother sauce. Apple Cider: Make sure to use apple cider, and not apple cider vinegar! Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. The sweeter the apples are, the less sugar you will need. Cinnamon: A whole cinnamon stick infuses this applesauce with warmth.
Tips for Success
Make sure to use perfectly ripe apples for the best texture. Cook the apples over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. A gentle simmer ensures even cooking. For a smoother applesauce, transfer the mixture to a food processor and process until smooth. Taste the sauce as you go. You can add more sweetener or spices if needed. To prevent oxidation/browning, mix in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the finished sauce. For a different method, try making applesauce in a Crockpot.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover homemade applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Enjoy chilled, room temperature, or slightly warmed. Freeze applesauce in small portions in airtight containers or Ziplock bags for up to 6 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade applesauce recipe is so versatile, and it’s one of my favorite ways to use up apples. It swirls seamlessly into oatmeal, replaces oil in your favorite chocolate chip cookies, and adds a hint of sweetness to potato pancakes or pork chops. And it’s one of the best side dishes to serve with kids’ lunches or dinners–they always love it!
How to Make Applesauce Step by Step
Simmer the Apples: Add 4 pounds of peeled, cored, and cubed apples; 1 cup of apple cider (not apple cider vinegar!); ¼-½ cup of brown sugar (adjust to your personal tastes); and 1 whole cinnamon stick to a large pot. Bring the pot to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook to Tender: Cook, stirring occasionally until the apples are fork tender, about 15-20 minutes. Mash the Sauce: Discard the cinnamon stick and use a potato masher to mash the applesauce to your desired consistency. Serve warm or refrigerate before serving.
More Apple Recipes To Try
Apple Butter Apple Chips Caramel Apples Baked Apples Fried Apples Apple Crisp Apple Pie Apple Cake
