How to Make Homemade Applesauce: A Step-by-Step Guide with Recipes

I. Introduction

Have you ever wanted to make your own applesauce but didn’t know where to start? Homemade applesauce is easy, affordable, and perfect for fall. Whether you want a classic, spiced, or fruity twist, there’s a recipe for you. Plus, making your own applesauce means you can control the ingredients, from sugar to spices to texture.

II. A step-by-step guide to making homemade applesauce from scratch

Before you start, keep in mind that the type of apple you use will affect the flavor and texture of your applesauce. Some applesauce recipes call for sweet, juicy apples, while others use tart, firm apples for a chunkier consistency.

A. Gathering the ingredients

For a simple batch of applesauce, all you need are apples, water, and sugar (optional). To make your own variations, you can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves, or use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

B. Preparing the apples

Wash and dry the apples, then core and chop them into small pieces, leaving the skin intact for added texture and nutrients. To save time, use a food processor or apple peeler/corer/slicer.

C. Cooking the apples

In a large pot, add the chopped apples and enough water to cover them (about 1-2 cups). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the apples are soft. Stir occasionally and add more water as needed to prevent sticking or burning.

D. Pureeing the apples

Using an immersion blender or food processor, puree the cooked apples until smooth or chunky, depending on your preference. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can run the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

E. Adding flavorings and storing the applesauce

Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness or spice as needed. If you’re adding spices, do so during cooking or after pureeing. Allow the applesauce to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. Homemade applesauce can last up to a week in the fridge or several months in the freezer.

III. 5 variations of homemade applesauce recipes to try this fall

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are five more ways to personalize your applesauce:

A. Cinnamon applesauce

Add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick to the pot with the chopped apples before cooking.

B. Spiced applesauce

In addition to cinnamon, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves.

C. Cranberry applesauce

Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries to the pot with the chopped apples before cooking.

D. Maple applesauce

Replace the sugar with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of maple syrup, depending on your sweetness preference. Add a pinch of salt and nutmeg for depth of flavor.

E. Berry applesauce

Add 1/2-1 cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries, to the pot with the chopped apples before cooking.

IV. How to make applesauce in the slow cooker or Instant Pot

If you don’t want to watch a pot on the stove, you can make applesauce in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. The process is similar to stovetop cooking, but the equipment does most of the work for you.

A. Benefits of slow cooking

Slow cooking allows the ingredients to blend and develop flavors over a longer period, resulting in a rich, robust applesauce. Plus, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day.

B. Steps for making applesauce in a slow cooker

In a slow cooker, combine the chopped apples, water, and sugar or other sweetener and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Puree and store as usual.

C. Benefits of using an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is perfect for those who want applesauce quickly or don’t have access to a stovetop. It’s also great for preserving nutrients and flavors.

D. Steps for making applesauce in an Instant Pot

In an Instant Pot, combine the chopped apples, water, and any sweeteners or spices. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 7-8 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before manually releasing the rest. Puree and store as usual.

V. The benefits of making your own applesauce and how to do it efficiently

Why make your own applesauce? Here are some reasons:

A. Health benefits of homemade applesauce

Homemade applesauce is rich in nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, and doesn’t contain artificial preservatives or flavors.

B. Cost savings and waste reduction

Buying apples in bulk or using up a bounty from your backyard can save you money and reduce food waste.

C. Time-saving tips for making applesauce efficiently

Using a food processor or slow cooker can save time and effort. You can also make a large batch and freeze individual portions for later use.

D. Storing and preserving homemade applesauce

Store homemade applesauce in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer. For long-term storage, canning or bottling is another option.

VI. Creative uses for leftover applesauce: recipes and ideas

What can you do with leftover applesauce? Here are some creative ideas:

A. Baking with applesauce

Applesauce can be used as a substitute for oil or butter in baking recipes, resulting in moist, healthier treats like muffins, bread, and cake. Try this recipe for applesauce oatmeal muffins:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup milk or yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix the oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the egg, applesauce, milk/yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Scoop the batter into the paper liners, filling about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into a muffin comes out clean.
7. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

B. Using applesauce as a topping

Applesauce can be a delicious and healthy topping for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or yogurt. Try this recipe for cinnamon applesauce breakfast topping:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup applesauce
• 1-2 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
2. Adjust sweetness or cinnamon as needed.
3. Serve over hot pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.

C. Mixing applesauce into breakfast dishes

Applesauce can also be used as a base or add-in for breakfast staples like overnight oats or smoothies. Try this recipe for cinnamon apple overnight oats:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk or almond milk
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch salt

Instructions:

1. In a jar or bowl, mix all ingredients until evenly combined.
2. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
3. Top with more applesauce, nuts, or fruit as desired.

D. Making applesauce-based dressings and marinades

Applesauce can be an unexpected but tasty ingredient in salad dressings, BBQ sauce, or marinades. Try this recipe for apple cider vinaigrette:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 2 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients except oil.
2. Blend until smooth, then drizzle in the oil while blending.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Serve over salad or vegetables.

VII. How to make applesauce with just a few ingredients: a beginner-friendly recipe

If you’re new to making homemade applesauce, this simple recipe is perfect:

A. Importance of a simple recipe

This recipe uses just a few ingredients and steps, making it easy to follow and customize.

B. List of ingredients needed

Ingredients:

• 6-8 medium apples, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Optional add-ins: nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, lemon juice

C. Step-by-step instructions

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cover and cook over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and the mixture is thickened.
3. Adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
4. Mash the apples with a fork or potato masher for a chunkier texture, or puree with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
5. Cool and store as usual.

VIII. Conclusion

Homemade applesauce is a delicious and healthy treat that’s easy to make and customize. From classic cinnamon to fruity and spiced variations, there’s a recipe for every palate. Whether you use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh, flavorful, and cost-effective applesauce all year round.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and uses, from baking to topping to marinading. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can make a simple and satisfying batch of applesauce that you’ll love.