There is something truly comforting and heartwarming about a bowl of sweet, tender homemade applesauce, especially when it is made from scratch with love. Our Homemade Applesauce Recipe is the perfect blend of naturally sweet apples, mellow cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar that turns simple ingredients into a cozy treat that everyone will adore. This applesauce isn’t just a side dish; it’s a little bowl of autumn happiness that warms your kitchen and your soul with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Homemade Applesauce Recipe lies in a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays its own unique role, from the fresh apples providing natural sweetness and texture, to the cinnamon stick adding that warm, fragrant spice we all crave in comfort food.
- 4 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and cubed): Choose tart to sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji for a well-balanced flavor and soft texture.
- 1 cup apple cider: Use fresh apple cider (not vinegar) to give the sauce a lively fruity base and extra moisture.
- ¼-½ cup brown sugar: Adjust this to your sweetness preference; brown sugar adds a rich molasses note enhancing depth.
- 1 whole cinnamon stick: Infuses a warm, earthy aroma that makes the applesauce irresistible without overpowering.
How to Make Homemade Applesauce Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
Begin by placing all your peeled, cored, and cubed apples into a large pot along with the apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon stick. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat, which will gently coax out the natural flavors without burning the sugars. This slow start sets the stage for soft, tender apples bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Cook Until Fork Tender
Once simmering, reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to encourage even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are meltingly tender and easily pierced by a fork, signaling peak softness perfect for mashing.
Step 3: Mash to Desired Consistency
After removing the cinnamon stick, use a potato masher to gently break down the apples into your preferred texture. Whether you like it chunky or creamy, this step is where the applesauce comes together, creamy and luscious or satisfyingly chunky, depending on your craving.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Serve your homemade applesauce warm for that fresh, comforting experience, or allow it to cool and refrigerate for later enjoyment. This flexibility means you can enjoy this treat right out of the pot or have it ready for snacks and meals throughout the week.
How to Serve Homemade Applesauce Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your applesauce with simple garnishes such as a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few fresh mint leaves. For a decadent twist, a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of honey adds beautiful creaminess and an extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
This versatile Homemade Applesauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted pork tenderloin, crispy fried chicken, or even alongside a hearty breakfast of oatmeal or pancakes. Its natural sweetness balances spiced and savory flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Serve your applesauce in small jars with cinnamon sticks for a rustic gift, layer it in parfaits with granola and fresh fruit, or swirl it into your morning yogurt for a delightful twist. Its smooth texture and lovely aroma make it a crowd-pleaser wherever it lands.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your homemade applesauce fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to one week, making it perfect to prepare ahead and enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
To extend the shelf life, freeze the applesauce in portion-sized containers or freezer bags. It freezes beautifully for up to three months, retaining much of its fresh flavor and texture when thawed gently in the fridge.
Reheating
For the best experience, reheat your applesauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This gentle method preserves its smoothness and prevents scorching. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this Homemade Applesauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Mixing varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji can give your applesauce an exciting depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite blend.
Do I have to add sugar to the applesauce?
Nope! You can skip the brown sugar if you prefer a naturally sweetened applesauce, especially if your apples are very sweet. The apple cider alone often provides enough sweetness.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling is traditional for a silky-smooth texture, but if you like a bit of rustic texture and extra fiber, you can leave the skins on. Just be sure to wash the apples well.
What can I do if I want spiced applesauce?
Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon stick during cooking. These warm spices complement the apples beautifully and elevate the flavor.
How long does homemade applesauce last?
Stored properly in the fridge, your applesauce will stay fresh for about a week. If frozen, aim to consume it within three months for best quality.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making your own applesauce from scratch, and this Homemade Applesauce Recipe is a simple yet delicious way to experience that joy. Whether you enjoy it right away or save it for later, each spoonful is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and cozy comfort. So grab your pot and give this recipe a try—you’re sure to find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Homemade Applesauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade applesauce recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh apples cooked down into a sweet and comforting sauce. Using peeled, cored, and cubed apples simmered with apple cider, brown sugar, and a cinnamon stick, it offers a natural sweetness with warm spice, perfect as a side dish or healthy snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and cubed)
- 1 cup apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- ¼–½ cup brown sugar
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the peeled, cored, and cubed apples, apple cider, brown sugar, and the whole cinnamon stick into a large pot.
- Simmer the Apples: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are fork tender and easily mashable.
- Remove Cinnamon Stick: Discard the cinnamon stick from the pot to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
- Mash the Applesauce: Use a potato masher to mash the apple mixture until it reaches your desired consistency—smooth or a little chunky.
- Serve or Store: Serve the applesauce warm or allow it to cool before refrigerating for later use.
Notes
- Adjust brown sugar amount based on the sweetness of your apples and personal preference.
- If you prefer a smoother applesauce, you can blend the mixture after cooking instead of mashing.
- Leftover applesauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- This applesauce can be served as a side to pork dishes, breakfast toppings, or a healthy snack.
- For a vegan and vegetarian-friendly recipe, confirm the apple cider is free of animal products.
