Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a delightful homemade treat? Discover the simplicity and satisfaction of making your own Unsweetened Applesauce! This easy recipe transforms fresh apples into a warm, comforting dish that's perfect for everything from breakfast to dessert. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you’ll create a deliciously versatile applesauce that’s free from added sugars and preservatives. Say goodbye to store-bought options and hello to a wholesome, flavorful alternative that you can customize to your taste. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade applesauce!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 medium apples, 1/2 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (if desired).
- Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife, ensuring to remove all the skin.
- Chop the peeled apples into small pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes, to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the chopped apples and pour in the 1/2 cup of water.
- Stir in the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, which will help preserve the color of the apples and add a slight tartness.
- If you are using cinnamon, sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon now, mixing it well with the apples.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Allow the apples to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the apples after 15 minutes; they should be soft and tender. If they are not yet soft, continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Once the apples are fully cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the apples to your desired consistency, whether smooth or chunky.
- Let the applesauce cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a clean container. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the applesauce using an immersion blender.
- Once cooled, store the unsweetened applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Fuji and Granny Smith. This combination will give your applesauce a well-rounded taste.
- Peeling Made Easy: Use a vegetable peeler for quick peeling, or if you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added nutrients and texture—just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract can give your applesauce a unique twist.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a smoother applesauce, blend it with an immersion blender after mashing. For a chunkier texture, just mash with a fork or potato masher to your liking.
- Storage Tips: Store your applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in small portions, so you can enjoy it whenever you like!
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your homemade applesauce as a side dish, a topping for pancakes, or even as a natural sweetener in baking recipes. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
