Homemade Applesauce
Applesauce is one of those comforting anytime foods. Maybe that’s because for many of us, it was one of the first foods we ever ate, and a food we looked forward to in our lunchboxes. As adults, we still enjoy applesauce as a convenient snack all its own or on top of yogurt or cottage cheese. It’s light, slightly sweet, and simply delicious.
Here is our recipe for homemade applesauce that requires just 3 ingredients and no added sugar (we promise, you won’t miss it). Enjoy this nostalgic dish on your own or gift to friends this holiday season.
Peel and core apples and slice into even pieces.
Place into a large soup pot along with water, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Cover and bring to a light simmer (your house is about to smell uh-mazing!) P.S. Hi cell phone reflection!
Occasionally stir apples to ensure even tenderness.
Apples are done when tender enough to mash with a spatula and water is absorbed/evaporated.
Transfer apples to a blender (you can also opt for a potato masher).
And blend (or mash) until you reach desired consistency.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
10-12 large apples, variety of choice*
1/2 tsp of cinnamon, or more to taste
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups water
*Apple variety is completely up to you! Traditionally, gala or honeycrisp are popular options but we’ve made with pink ladies with great success. Pick your favorite!
Directions
Wash, peel, and core apples and dice into large, even pieces. Add apples to a large soup pot along with remaining ingredients. (Note: water should reach about 1/3 to 1/2 of the way up the pot. Careful not to over fill with water or you will make apple soup! )Cover and bring to a light simmer. Simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender enough to mash with a spoon and water is absorbed/evaporated. Once slightly cooled, carefully transfer to a blender and puree until you reach desired consistency. Adjust seasonings per preference.
Pro Tip: This recipe can also be made in the crockpot! Set on low and cook apples for 2-3 hours or until tender.