Homemade Applesauce Recipe: Stovetop or Slow Cooker

Fall is a favorite time for many because of its aromas and flavors, and few things say autumn like apples and cinnamon. This applesauce fills the kitchen with the same comforting scent you get from apple pie, but it comes together far more quickly. Use it as a snack, a side dish, or a simple, natural sweetener in baking.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Fresh, simple ingredients let the natural apple flavor shine, accented with warm cinnamon.
• Only a few ingredients and minimal added sugar—adjust to taste depending on your apples.
• Quick to prepare and ready in about 40 minutes total, making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute sides.
• Versatile: enjoy it on its own, pair with savory meats, or use it as an oil substitute in many baked goods.

Recipe ingredients

This recipe keeps things minimal to highlight the apples. If your apples are very tart, add a touch more sweetener; otherwise, the fruit’s natural sugars will be enough.

Ingredient notes

• Apples: Pink Lady apples are used here for their balanced sweetness, but any firm baking apple will work well. Mixing varieties can add depth of flavor.
• Sugar: A small amount of granulated sugar helps balance tart apples. Substitute honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar if you prefer.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens the flavors. It can be omitted, but it helps keep the sauce lively and balances sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth. Use a teaspoon for a rounded flavor, or simmer a cinnamon stick with the apples and remove it before mashing.

See the recipe card below for exact quantities.

How to make this recipe

Making homemade applesauce is straightforward: cook the apples until soft, then mash or purée to your preferred texture. The result tastes like a quick, uncomplicated version of apple pie filling.

Pro tip: Use a potato masher for a chunky sauce or a food processor for a smoother puree. Adjust sweetness and spice after cooking to taste.

1. Place the prepared apples, water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir to combine.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook about 30 minutes, or until the apples are very soft.
3. Mash the cooked apples with a potato masher, fork, or the back of a spoon to achieve the texture you prefer. Serve warm or chilled.

Recipe FAQs

Serving suggestions

Enjoy homemade applesauce on its own as a snack or dessert, or pair it with savory dishes. It works particularly well alongside pork or roasted chicken, and it can be served with sandwiches or salads for a fresh contrast.

In baking, applesauce is a useful oil substitute that adds moisture and subtle apple flavor to cakes, muffins, and quick breads. Use it in recipes that call for some added moisture and mild sweetness.

Recipe notes

• Texture: Mash for a rustic, chunky sauce or purée for silky smooth applesauce.
• Apples: Pink Lady apples give a naturally sweet result, but any preferred baking apple will work.
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week, or freeze up to 3 months.

More apple recipes you’ll enjoy

• Apple oatmeal muffins
• Classic tarte tatin
• Baked apples
• Spinach salad with apples, cranberries, and walnuts