Celebrate apple season with this easy, flavorful Homemade Applesauce recipe. Bright apple flavor and a warm touch of cinnamon make this sauce a comforting snack or side dish. Prep takes only a few minutes and the apples cook down in about 30 minutes for a total time of roughly 40 minutes.
Fall is the season for apples and cinnamon, and this recipe brings both to your kitchen without fuss. The applesauce has the warm, familiar notes of apple pie but comes together much faster. It’s naturally delicious, lightly sweetened, and adaptable—perfect for snacking, using as a baking substitute for oil, or serving alongside pork or chicken.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- This homemade applesauce tastes fresh and cozy, highlighted by warm cinnamon.
- With just a few simple ingredients, the apple flavor remains the star.
- Quick to prepare and ready in about 40 minutes, it’s convenient for weeknight meal prep.
- Versatile: enjoy it as a snack, a side, or use it in baking as an oil substitute.
Recipe ingredients
Simple ingredients let the apples shine. Adjust the sugar to taste based on how sweet or tart your apples are.
Ingredient notes
- Apples. Pink Lady apples were used here for their natural sweetness, but any firm baking apple works well. Mixing varieties can add complexity.
- Granulated sugar. A small amount balances tart apples; swap for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar if preferred.
- Lemon juice. Adds brightness and keeps the color fresh, but it’s optional.
- Cinnamon. Ground cinnamon adds warmth. You can use a cinnamon stick while cooking for a milder infusion.
Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
How to make this recipe
This applesauce is straightforward: combine the ingredients, simmer until the apples are very soft, then mash to your preferred texture.
Pro tip: Use a potato masher for a chunky sauce or a blender/food processor for a silky-smooth result.
Short instructions are below; follow the recipe card for exact measurements.
- Combine apples, water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan and stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the apples are very tender.
- Mash the cooked apples with a potato masher or the back of a spoon until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Serve warm or chilled.
Recipe FAQs
Choose firm baking apples with good flavor. Popular choices include Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Braeburn, and Golden Delicious. Using a mix of two or three varieties can create a richer, more nuanced sauce.
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade applesauce will keep for about one week.
Yes. Freeze applesauce in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Serving suggestions
Serve applesauce on its own as a snack or dessert, or pair it with savory dishes like baked pork chops or pulled chicken. It also complements sandwiches and salads, and makes a wholesome swap for oil in cakes, muffins, and quick breads to add moisture and flavor.
Recipe notes
- Pro tip: Mash by hand for texture or blend for a smooth sauce.
- Substitute other baking apple varieties if Pink Lady aren’t available.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for up to three months.
More apple recipes you’ll love
- Apple oatmeal muffins
- Classic tarte tatin
- Baked apples
- Spinach salad with apples, cranberries, and walnuts
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media to share your results.
Easy Homemade Applesauce Recipe
This simple applesauce captures the fresh sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. It’s quick to make and wonderfully versatile.
Ingredients
- 4 large Pink Lady apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or substitute to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan and stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until apples are very soft.
- Mash with a potato masher or blend until smooth. Serve warm or cool and refrigerate.
Notes
- Swap apple varieties based on availability and taste preference.
- Use a cinnamon stick instead of ground cinnamon for a milder infusion.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week, or freeze up to 3 months.
Nutrition (estimate per serving)
Calories: 111 kcal · Carbohydrates: 29 g · Fiber: 3 g · Sugar: 25 g · Sodium: 35 mg
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