There’s something magical about the simplicity of homemade applesauce—its velvety texture and naturally sweet flavor make it a timeless treat. With just a handful of fresh apples and a touch of cinnamon, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a comforting delight in under 45 minutes. The gentle simmering process fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, promising a warm, spoonable reward that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re spooning it over pancakes, pairing it with roasted pork, or enjoying it straight from the jar, this applesauce is a versatile staple. Its smooth, luscious consistency and balanced sweetness make it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Plus, with only 15 minutes of prep, it’s an effortless way to savor the essence of fall all year round.
What You’ll Need for Homemade Applesauce?
- 4 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and chopped; use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for balanced flavor)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds brightness; substitute with lemon juice if needed)
- ⅓ cup water (helps prevent sticking and aids in softening the apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste; optional for a spiced flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (enhances the natural sweetness of the apples)
How to Make Homemade Applesauce
- Combine the ingredients: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, add the chopped apples, apple cider vinegar, and water. Stir to mix.
- Cook over low heat: Place the saucepan on the stove over low heat. Stir often for about 4 minutes, or until the apples begin to soften.
- Simmer covered: Cover the saucepan and let it simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. This helps the apples release their juices and soften further.
- Add cinnamon and salt: Uncover the saucepan, stir in the cinnamon and sea salt, then cover again. Continue simmering for 10 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and start to fall apart.
- Mash or blend: Turn off the heat. Use a potato masher to mash the apples to your preferred consistency. For a smoother texture, pulse in a food processor or blend with an immersion blender.
- Serve or store: Enjoy warm or let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Your Applesauce
This homemade applesauce is incredibly versatile! Serve it warm as a comforting side dish with roasted pork or chicken. For a sweet treat, dollop it over pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream. It also makes a great snack—just grab a spoon and enjoy!
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store your applesauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Mix It Up: Fun Recipe Variations
Customize your applesauce by adding 1/4 cup of brown sugar for extra sweetness or a pinch of nutmeg for a spiced twist. For a chunkier texture, skip the mashing step. Want a tropical vibe? Swap the cinnamon for 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger and add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut.
Quick Tips: Save Time in the Kitchen
To speed up prep, use an apple corer and peeler to handle the apples quickly. If you’re short on time, cook the apples on medium heat, stirring frequently, to reduce the simmering time by 5-10 minutes. Pre-chopped apples from the store can also be a handy shortcut!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Love
Make this recipe even easier with the right tools! A Dutch oven ensures even cooking, while an immersion blender creates a silky-smooth texture in seconds. Don’t forget a sturdy potato masher for a rustic, chunky finish.
Homemade Applesauce
Ingredients
- 4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Combine the apples, apple cider vinegar, and water in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Cook over low heat, stirring often, until the apples start to soften, about 4 minutes.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Uncover, stir in the cinnamon and salt, cover again, and continue simmering for 10 to 20 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and beginning to fall apart.
- Turn off the heat and use a potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. If you’d like a smoother applesauce, pulse it in a food processor or blend it with an immersion blender.