Why Applesauce Is a Great Healthy Dessert
Although many desserts can be loaded with sugar and calories, applesauce stands out as a deliciously healthy alternative.
I love how it satisfies my sweet tooth without the guilt. Made from fresh apples, it’s naturally sweet and packed with vitamins.
Plus, the warm, cinnamon-spiced aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel like a cozy treat. Whether I enjoy it on its own or pair it with yogurt, it always hits the spot.
And let’s not forget, it’s an excellent way to use up those extra apples sitting in my pantry.
Trust me; you’ll want to give it a try!
Ingredients of Applesauce
Making cinnamon-spiced applesauce isn’t just a treat for your taste buds, but also a wonderful way to bring the warmth and coziness of fall right into your kitchen. You know that delightful smell that wafts through the air when you bake an apple pie? Well, this recipe captures that essence in a simple, homemade dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those apples that have been hanging around in your pantry, giving them a second life instead of letting them go to waste. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to make something delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious applesauce:
- 3-4 lbs apples (peeled, cored, and quartered; granny smith, fuji, or gravenstein apples, or a mix)
- 4 slices lemon peel
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 inches cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar (you can adjust this up to 1/2 cup based on your sweetness preference)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
When it comes to choosing your apples, don’t stress too much. Each variety brings a unique flavor profile to the table. Granny Smith adds a nice tartness, while Fuji and Gravenstein are sweeter and juicier.
If you’re feeling adventurous, mix and match — you might just discover your new favorite combo. And about the sugars, if you’re looking to cut back a bit, you can totally dial down the white sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener.
The lemon juice not only enhances the apples’ natural sweetness but also helps prevent browning, keeping your applesauce looking fresh and vibrant. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s plunge into the next step: making this delightful applesauce!
How to Make Applesauce
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making cinnamon-spiced applesauce. First things first, grab yourself 3 to 4 pounds of apples. You can use Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gravenstein apples—or even a mix of them for a fun flavor explosion. Just make sure to peel, core, and quarter them. It sounds like a lot of work, but trust me, once you start, it’s oddly satisfying to see those shiny apple pieces ready to go.
Now, toss those apple quarters into a large pot along with 4 slices of lemon peel, the juice of one lemon, and a generous 3 inches of cinnamon sticks. Ahh, the smell of cinnamon already has me dreaming of cozy fall evenings.
Next, add in 1/4 cup of dark brown sugar and up to 1/2 cup of white sugar, depending on how sweet you like your applesauce. If you’re like me, you might be tempted to just dump in all the sugar—after all, who doesn’t love a little sweetness?
Then, pour in 1 cup of water and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This little bit of salt is like the secret handshake that helps all the flavors mingle.
Now, cover the pot and bring everything to a boil. You might want to use a lid or risk a messy kitchen—trust me, nobody wants to clean that up.
Once it’s boiling, drop the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. You’ll want to occasionally stir it, just to keep things from sticking to the bottom or burning. When the apples are soft and starting to break down, it’s time to take off the heat.
Remove the cinnamon sticks and lemon peels (because, let’s be real, they’ve done their job and we don’t want any surprises in our applesauce).
Grab a potato masher and go to town on those apples until it reaches your desired consistency. Some like it chunky, some like it smooth—be the boss of your own applesauce!
Then, serve it warm or let it cool down in the fridge. You can even freeze it for later; it lasts up to a year, which is like the secret vault of fall flavors waiting to be unearthed. Enjoy!
Applesauce Substitutions & Variations
When you’re looking to mix things up in your applesauce game, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate that can elevate this classic treat.
For a twist, try using pears or a blend of apples and pears for added sweetness. I love adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
You could also swap out the sugars for maple syrup or honey, depending on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
Each variation brings something special, making your applesauce experience delightful and exciting!
What to Serve with Applesauce
While many enjoy applesauce on its own, pairing it with other dishes can enhance its flavors and textures.
I love serving it alongside pork chops; the sweetness balances the savory meat perfectly. It also shines as a side with roasted chicken or turkey, adding a comforting touch.
For a cozy breakfast, I often dollop it on pancakes or waffles, and it’s fantastic with oatmeal too.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with sharp cheddar cheese for a delightful contrast.
No matter how you choose to serve it, applesauce truly complements a variety of meals and snacks. Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your cinnamon-spiced applesauce turns out perfectly every time, I recommend experimenting with the types of apples you use.
Granny Smith adds tartness, while Fuji brings sweetness. Mixing varieties can enhance flavor complexity.
Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the taste and prevents browning. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend your applesauce after mashing.
For extra warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. Remember, this applesauce freezes well, so make a double batch!
Finally, serve it warm over pancakes or with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. Enjoy your homemade applesauce!