Homemade Applesauce is a simple, delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of apples with just a few ingredients. Whether served warm or chilled, this applesauce is a comforting and versatile treat that can be eaten on its own, stirred into oatmeal, or used as a topping for pancakes or yogurt. You can adjust the sweetness and texture to your liking, whether you prefer it smooth or chunky. Best of all, it’s made without preservatives, allowing you to enjoy the pure flavor of fresh apples in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 large apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of your apples)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Choose a variety of apples for the best flavor.
- Cook the apples: In a medium saucepan, combine the apples, water, sugar (if using), and cinnamon (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer: Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the apples cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are very soft and beginning to break down.
- Mash or blend: For a chunky applesauce, use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, blend the applesauce using an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender and puree until smooth.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness (optional).
- Cool and store: Allow the applesauce to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
This homemade applesauce is naturally sweet, customizable, and can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or healthy addition to many dishes!
