Homemade Applesauce
Ingredients
12
servings
- 6 medium apples (1 medium apple = 1/2 cup applesauce)
- 1 cup water or apple cider
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Peel, core and cut up the apples (if you want the applesauce to be pink, leave on the red peels). Place them in a saucepan with cider or water, sugar and cinnamon.
- Boil gently uncovered, until the apples are soft enough to mash, about 40 minutes. Stir with a fork to mash, leaving a few small lumps.
- Return to low heat. Stir in butter. Simmer until melted, about 2-3 minutes. Beat briefly.
- Serve warm or cold as a side dish, or add cornstarch to thicken and use to make filling for a cake (especially Old Fashioned Stack Cake).
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why is my applesauce too watery?
A: If you're using it for baking, place a paper towel in a strainer, add the applesauce, and let it drain over a bowl for an hour. For eating fresh, simmer it longer uncovered to evaporate more moisture and get a thicker consistency.
Q: Can I leave the peels on?
A: Yes! If you leave the red peels on, your applesauce will turn a lovely pink color. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly first.
Tips and Techniques
For baking applications like cake fillings, you want a thick applesauce. Either drain it as described or cook it 10-15 minutes longer until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. You can adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples—tart apples need more, sweet apples need less.
Ingredient Substitutions
- sugar: honey or maple syrup
- water: apple cider or apple juice
- unsalted butter: omit entirely for a vegan version
Equipment Needed
- medium saucepan
- potato masher or fork
- vegetable peeler
- apple corer (optional)
