Easy Homemade Applesauce

This homemade applesauce is the perfect way to enjoy the fresh, natural sweetness of ripe apples. With only a few ingredients and a simple cooking method, you’ll have a delicious, versatile sauce that can be served warm with a dash of cinnamon or stored for later use. Ideal for snacking, pairing with meals, or using as an ingredient in baking, this applesauce offers a wonderfully smooth and customizable texture, from chunky to silky smooth, depending on your preference.

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Ingredients

Servings: 32 (1/2 cup servings)

• 10 lbs ripe apples, any variety (the riper, the sweeter)
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar, optional (add to taste, depending on the apples’ sweetness)
• Cinnamon, optional, for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples. The thinner the slices, the faster they’ll cook down.
2. Start the Cooking Process: In a large stockpot, combine the water and sugar (if using), bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat to dissolve the sugar. Add the apples, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Mash to Desired Consistency: Once the apples are soft, mash them using a potato masher for a chunky sauce, or use an immersion blender or hand mixer for a smoother texture.
4. Serve or Store: Let the applesauce cool to room temperature. Serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or store in the refrigerator for up to a week, freeze, or follow the canning instructions below for longer storage.

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To Can Applesauce

1. Prepare Jars: Wash and sterilize 8 pint-sized jars and lids.
2. Ladle the Sauce into Jars: Use a ladle and funnel to fill the sterilized jars with the hot applesauce, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean.
3. Process in a Canning Bath: Place the jars in a large canning pot filled with boiling water (water should cover jars by 1-2 inches). Boil for 20 minutes to ensure a proper seal.
4. Cool and Store: Carefully remove the jars with a jar lifter, setting them upright to cool. Lids should be indented and not “pop,” indicating a proper seal. Any unsealed jars can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2 weeks.

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Tips for Perfect Applesauce

• Apple Variety: Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor. Sweeter apples (like Fuji or Gala) reduce the need for added sugar, while tart apples (like Granny Smith) add a bright note.
• Texture Control: Control the texture of your applesauce by mashing less for a chunkier version or blending for a smooth puree.
• Adding Spices: Customize with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a spiced version, or leave it plain for versatility.

This simple homemade applesauce is a delicious way to enjoy fall flavors all year round!