The best way to use up well-ripened apples
Whether your fruit is fresh off the branch, or has been sitting in the kitchen for a while, this is the go-to applesauce recipe to use up your leftover apples! Simple and easy, it’s a joy to make this with kids as you can make a big batch to use in lunches or with an after-school snack throughout the week. It’s also a sweet and tart addition to savory dishes like these pork chops, or as a topping or filling in almost any kind of dessert. Who knew applesauce could be so versatile?
But where does it come from, and why is it so popular today? The earliest applesauce recipe can be dated back to the 1700s in Europe, although there may be older recipes that have not been preserved or documented. The tart and warming flavor of applesauce tastes like the inside of an apple pie. Sure, it’s easy to get applesauce at the store, but making it from scratch is so simple and so rewarding.
Is Applesauce Healthy?
Firstly, you’ll notice that sugar is optional in this recipe, and in fact, you are more than welcome to cut it out entirely as the apples are sweet enough without added sugar. Otherwise, you can use an alternative sweetener like honey or maple syrup, or a sugar-free alternative like stevia. The more tart the apple is (like Granny Smith apples), the more you’ll probably want to sweeten it. To ensure a balanced sweet and tart flavor, consider using sweeter apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Ambrosia.
Regardless of the amount of sugar you choose to use in the recipe, it’s important to consume this applesauce in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Since apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, they can help with both digestion and hydration. This recipe is gluten-free and vegan.
How to Amplify the Applesauce Flavor
If you’d like to add to the number of spices in this recipe, there are plenty of aromatic spices that will kick this sauce up a notch! For example, I like to add ground cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger to the mix for a peppery yet warming flavor profile. For a brighter and richer flavor, consider adding one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the apples as they cook. Lastly, although it’s the opposite of what this recipe calls for, some cooks recommend using skin-on fruit which can enhance both the flavor and color, but it can also make the applesauce slightly more gritty.
How to make ahead and store
The applesauce must be eaten within 3 to 5 days of its initial creation. In a well-sealed jar in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh during this time, but if you’d like to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator the day before you’re ready to eat it, giving it an occasional stir to avoid separation. Once it’s thawed, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
The real question is—what can’t you serve with applesauce?
First, this golden deliciousness makes a great topping for Cinnamon Pancakes. A more unique (but similar) option would be these Sweet Potato Pancakes.
For a savory dish, I love to spread this applesauce on the top bun of a pulled pork roll, cutting through the rich Slow-Cooker Pork with a delightfully sweet flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples about 3 lbs, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar optional
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine chopped apples, water, sugar (if using), and cinnamon in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 20 to 30 minutes or until the apples are very soft.
- Remove from heat. For a chunky texture, mash the apples with a potato masher. For a smoother texture, blend with an immersion blender or in a regular blender after allowing to cool slightly.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment