A straightforward recipe for making delicious, natural applesauce from fresh apples. Perfect for using up apple season bounty.
Author:katereilly
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 pounds apples (about 6–8 medium), peeled, cored, and quartered
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Place the prepared apples in a large pot.
Add the water to the pot.
Cover the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are very tender, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pot from the heat.
Mash the apples with a potato masher or fork until you reach your desired consistency. For smoother applesauce, you can use an immersion blender or food processor.
Stir in the sugar (if using), cinnamon, and lemon juice (if using).
Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved and flavors meld.
Let the applesauce cool before serving.
Notes
You can use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. A mix of sweet and tart apples works well.
For a sugar-free option, omit the sugar. The natural sweetness of the apples will be prominent.
Applesauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the applesauce or can it.