Make this simple, naturally sweet homemade applesauce on the stovetop. It is quick to prepare and perfect for snacks, side dishes, or baking applications.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 lbs apples (like Gala or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Place the chopped apples, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add lemon juice if you are using it.
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should become very soft.
Remove the pot from the heat.
Use an immersion blender or potato masher to reach your desired consistency. Blend until smooth for classic applesauce, or mash lightly for a chunky texture.
Taste the applesauce. If you prefer more spice, stir in a little extra cinnamon.
Serve the homemade applesauce warm, or cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
Notes
For a naturally sweeter result, choose naturally sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
If you want a very smooth texture, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after mashing.
This recipe makes a great healthy snack or a wholesome apple treat for the family.