Homemade Applesauce

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Experience the wholesome goodness of homemade applesauce with my simple and delicious recipe. Made with just three ingredients – fresh green apples, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of water – this applesauce is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Unsweetened apple sauce

Applesauce is one ingredient that I prefer to make myself. Sure, you can easily buy it in the supermarket but you never know what it really contains and how much sugar you’re consuming. Therefore, I am happy to share with you my homemade sugar free applesauce recipe.

With only 3 ingredients and a short cooking time, you will have fresh applesauce to use in any recipe or to munch on as is.

If you must have sugar, you can add 2-3 tablespoons. After I made applesauce without any sugar, I find that it tastes delicious in its pure version and I do not miss the sugar! It is a matter of taste so just taste and decide what you like better.

Apple sauce substitute

If you avoid eating eggs or are on the vegan diet, you know that applesauce is one of the most common replacements for eggs in many baking recipes. I use it in my beet cake, vegan cinnamon rolls and other recipes on the blog too.

Applesauce apples

I like to use green apples, like Granny Smith, for making applesauce. They are less sweet and have a sharp acidic flavor that works very well in applesauce. I also peel the apples, I know some people make homemade applesauce from the whole apple but my recipe works with peeled apples.

The recipe yields approximately 2 cups of applesauce. I keep the applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge.

Tips

Choose the Right Apples

Opt for green apples like Granny Smith, as they have a balanced tartness and sweetness, making for a delicious applesauce. You can also mix different apple varieties for a unique flavor profile.

Peeling and Coring

To achieve a smooth texture, peel the apples before cooking them. Remove the cores as well to avoid any hard bits in your applesauce.

Lemon Juice

The addition of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent the apples from browning during the cooking process. Ensure you use fresh lemon juice for the best results.

Spice it Up

For a flavor boost, consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to your applesauce during cooking. These spices complement the natural apple flavor beautifully.

Texture Control

Depending on your preference, you can blend the applesauce to be either chunky or completely smooth. Use a fork for a chunkier texture or a food processor for a smoother one.

Storage

Store your homemade applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

FAQS

Can I use any type of apple to make applesauce?

While you can technically use any apple variety, it's best to choose ones that are naturally tart and firm, like Granny Smith or McIntosh. They break down well and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor.

Can I freeze homemade applesauce?

Yes, homemade applesauce freezes well. Store it in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Leave some room for expansion as it freezes. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for several months.

What can I use applesauce for besides eating it plain?

Applesauce is a versatile ingredient. You can use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. It can also be used as a substitute for oil or eggs in baking recipes, like muffins or cakes.

Can I can my homemade applesauce for long-term storage?

Yes, you can can your applesauce using proper canning techniques and equipment. Follow established canning guidelines to ensure safety and preservation.

How long does homemade applesauce stay fresh in the refrigerator?

Homemade applesauce typically stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored in an airtight container.

Other recipes to try:

For more recipes using apples, check out my apple recipe index.

Make homemade applesauce today!

With its natural sweetness and delightful tartness, it's not only a versatile treat on its own but also a fantastic ingredient to enhance your favorite dishes. Follow my easy instructions to create a batch of this homemade applesauce that will elevate your meals and snacks to a whole new level of flavor and satisfaction.