Make simple, flavorful homemade applesauce on the stovetop using fresh apples and cinnamon. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort.
Author:Leo Hartwell
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
Scale
6 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Gala)
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Peel, core, and chop the apples into 1-inch pieces.
Place the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice (if using) into a large saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the apples are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the ground cinnamon.
For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a standard blender and process until smooth. For chunky applesauce, mash the apples with a fork or potato masher to your desired consistency.
Cool before serving or storing.
Notes
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.
If you prefer sweeter applesauce, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
This recipe yields a naturally sweet product without added sugar.