A simple recipe for making delicious, naturally sweet applesauce from fresh apples.
Author:ellievance
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:6 cups1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 pounds apples (about 8–10 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
Instructions
Place the prepared apples, water, sugar (if using), and cinnamon in a large pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the apples are very tender, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice.
Mash the apples with a potato masher or fork until you reach your desired consistency. For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a food processor.
Taste and add more sugar or cinnamon if needed.
Let the applesauce cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
For a chunkier applesauce, leave some larger pieces of apple.
You can use a variety of apples for different flavor profiles. A mix of sweet and tart apples works well.
Store homemade applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.