Grandmas Easy Homemade Applesauce

Recipe Introduction

Ever get that craving for something warm and comforting? I do! And that's exactly where this homemade applesauce recipe comes in. It's like a hug in a bowl. Seriously.

What is Granny Smith’s Secret?

It's all about the apples, innit? This applesauce recipe easy starts with the freshest, juiciest apples you can find. We're talking proper comfort food here, made with love and a little bit of cinnamon magic.

A Taste of History (and Deliciousness)

Applesauce has been around for ages. It's a classic for a reason. This vegan applesauce recipe is also naturally gluten-free! This recipe yields about 4 cups, perfect for sharing...or not!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This homemade applesauce no sugar option is a winner! It's packed with fibre and vitamins. It's perfect for a cozy night in, or as a yummy topping for your morning porridge.

It really is a taste of home. What makes this recipe special is that you can tweak it to your hearts desire.

Want it sweeter? Add more sugar. Want it spicier? Go crazy with the cinnamon. It's all about making it your own.

What You'll Need To Create This Classic

Let's get down to brass tacks. You'll need about 2.5 lbs of apples. Think Gala, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix of your favourites.

Water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Don't forget a large saucepan or Dutch oven. I sometimes use my slow cooker, creating a super easy slow cooker applesauce recipe .

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need for this banging homemade applesauce recipe ! It’s proper easy, trust me.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients: The Apple Lineup

You'll need 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) of apples. Honestly, the best apples for applesauce are a mix. I usually go for something sweet like Gala or Honeycrisp.

Throw in a few tart ones like Granny Smith to balance it out. Quality matters ! You want firm, bruise free apples.

Peel 'em, core 'em, and roughly chop 'em.

Next up, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water. This helps them soften up without burning. Then, 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar.

But here’s a little secret: taste it as you go! Some apples are sweeter than others. If you're going for a homemade applesauce no sugar vibe, just skip it.

Finally, a tablespoon of lemon juice. It brightens everything up. Plus, a pinch of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon optional, but trust me, it adds that chef's kiss !

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!

Cinnamon is the classic, right? But nutmeg or even a tiny bit of allspice can be a game changer. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of cardamom is amazing.

For flavour enhancers , a touch of vanilla extract after cooking is wicked. Lemon zest can also boost the flavour.

Quick sub? If you don’t have lemon juice, a splash of apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

Honestly, you don’t need much. A large saucepan or Dutch oven is perfect. A vegetable peeler is essential. An apple corer is handy, but a knife does the job.

Measuring cups and spoons, obvs. Then, a potato masher for a chunky applesauce recipe . Or an immersion blender if you want it super smooth.

But be careful blending hot stuff! Common household alternative? Use a regular blender.

My grandma used to make this, and the aroma of homemade apple sauce cinnamon used to waft through the house. It was amazing. Now, get cracking on that applesauce recipe easy !

Alright then, let's get cracking on this homemade applesauce recipe ! It's a classic. Honestly, it's easier than queuing for a Greggs sausage roll on a Saturday morning.

Plus, it will fill your kitchen with amazing smells!

Grandma's Easy Homemade Applesauce

Remember that smell of apples simmering? This recipe takes you right back there. This applesauce recipe easy uses a few ingredients and know how for great flavour.

Prefer it smooth or chunky? This recipe lets you customize it.

Prep Steps

It’s all about getting organised!

Essential Mise en Place

Peel, core and chop about 2.5 lbs of your best apples for applesauce . Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are lush.

Measure out 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon if you fancy.

Time Saving Organization Tips

Get everything prepped before you start. Honestly, it makes life so much easier. Nothing worse than scrambling when you're halfway through, you know? It will take you 15 minutes .

step-by-step Process

Let's get cooking!

1. Peel, core, and chop the apples. Make sure they are roughly the same size.
2. Chuck the apples in a big pan with 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon (if using).
3. Bring it to a simmer. Turn the heat down low. Simmer for 30- 40 minutes , till the apples are dead soft.
4. Mash it! For chunky applesauce recipe , use a potato masher. For smooth applesauce, use a blender. Be careful blending hot stuff.
5. Taste it. Does it need more sugar? More spice? Now's your chance!

Pro Tips

Expert Techniques

• Apple Variety: Mixing different apples can add depth.
• No Sugar? You can make homemade applesauce no sugar at all. The sweetness of the apples will shine through.

Common Mistakes

Don't overcook it! Mushy applesauce is a tragedy. The lemon juice stops the apples from browning. Don't skip it.

Extra information

If you are interested in applesauce recipe for canning follow the USDA guidelines on home canning Also this vegan applesauce recipe is great as a healthy snack recipes , or consider it an addition to your fall baking recipes .

Honestly, this homemade applesauce recipe is a winner. It's simple, tastes amazing, and is a brilliant way to use up a glut of apples.

Plus, it is a gluten-free applesauce recipe ! Enjoy!

Right, let's talk nitty gritty about this k_annotated: homemade applesauce recipe . It's dead simple, but a few extra bits of knowledge can take it from "okay" to "OMG, this is amazing!" Honestly, these are the bits I wish I'd known before I started making it.

Recipe Notes: Getting it Just Right

Serving Like a Pro: Plating and Pairings

Right, you've got your k_annotated: easy apple sauce recipe . Now, how do you serve it? k_annotated: Plating matters, even for applesauce! A swirl in a nice bowl makes a difference.

For sides, think pork. Applesauce and pork chops? Classic British pub grub! Also, a dollop on yogurt or granola. And honestly, for a cheeky treat, warm applesauce with vanilla ice cream.

K_annotated: Complementary beverages include apple cider or a nice cup of tea. I like to add a cinnamon stick in the drink for extra autumn flavour!

Storage Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh

So, you've made a massive batch. k_annotated: Refrigeration is your best bet. Keep your homemade applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll happily sit there for about a week. Want it longer? Freezing is the key! Freeze in individual portions for k_annotated: easy apple dessert recipes later.

K_annotated: Freezing options are fantastic in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags. When it comes to k_annotated: reheating , a microwave or a pan on the stove works.

Just make sure it's piping hot! Fancy k_annotated: applesauce recipe for canning ? It changes things a bit remember to use proper sterilised jars and follow canning safety guidelines.

Variations: Mix it Up

Feeling adventurous? Let's jazz things up. For a k_annotated: vegan applesauce recipe , just ensure your sugar is vegan friendly. k_annotated: Homemade applesauce no sugar ? Easy peasy! Just leave it out, or use a sugar alternative.

Seasonally, try adding blackberries in the summer or cranberries in the autumn. I tried k_annotated: homemade apple sauce cinnamon once and it was amazing! Just don't use too much you don't want it overpowering the apple flavour.

Nutrition Tidbits: Goodness in Every Bite

Applesauce is naturally a k_annotated: healthy snack recipes . It's full of fibre and vitamins. My k_annotated: simplified nutrition information : low in fat, decent in carbs, and full of good stuff from the apples.

A k_annotated: gluten-free applesauce recipe too, naturally! Always check for added sugars if you’re buying it ready-made, though. k_annotated: Key health benefits include improved digestion thanks to the fibre.

So, there you have it! A bit of extra info to make your k_annotated: homemade applesauce recipe easy and delicious.

Honestly, experiment, have fun, and enjoy! Remember, there are so many ways to make this k_annotated: fresh applesauce recipe your own.

Enjoy your delicious k_annotated: small batch applesauce recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best apples to use for a homemade applesauce recipe? Can I mix different kinds?

That's a cracking question! The best apples for applesauce are ones that break down easily when cooked. Popular choices include Gala, Honeycrisp, and Fuji. But the beauty of a homemade applesauce recipe is you can absolutely mix different varieties for a more complex flavor!

A mix of sweet and tart apples is usually a winner.

My applesauce turned out too watery. How can I fix it?

Don't you worry, it's an easy fix! If your applesauce is too watery, simply simmer it uncovered for a bit longer. This will allow some of the excess moisture to evaporate. You can also add a small amount of applesauce thickener like cornstarch (mixed with water first!) if it needs a helping hand.

Next time, try using slightly less water to begin with!

How long does homemade applesauce last, and what's the best way to store it?

Properly stored, your lovely homemade applesauce recipe should last for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Divide the applesauce into freezer safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen applesauce will last for up to 2-3 months.

Can I make this homemade applesauce recipe without sugar?

You certainly can! Simply omit the granulated sugar from the recipe. The natural sweetness of the apples will still create a delicious applesauce. If you prefer it a bit sweeter, you can add a natural sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to taste, or even a dash of maple syrup for extra flavour just a little though, a drizzle will do.

I don't have lemon juice. What can I use instead in this homemade applesauce recipe?

Lemon juice adds brightness and helps prevent the apples from browning, but if you're out, don't fret! You can substitute it with an equal amount of lime juice in a pinch, although it will change the flavour slightly. If you don't have either, a small splash of apple cider vinegar can also work as a substitute.

How can I make this applesauce recipe even more flavourful?

Fancy a bit of a flavour boost, eh? As well as cinnamon, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for a warmer, spiced flavour. A dash of vanilla extract after cooking can also add a lovely depth. You can also try replacing the water with apple juice or apple cider for more intense apple flavour.