How to Make Applesauce: From Slow-Cooking to Canning

I. Introduction

If you love applesauce but have never made it from scratch, you’re missing out on one of the simplest yet delicious homemade treats. Not only is homemade applesauce nutritious and free from preservatives, but it also offers endless possibilities for customizing flavors and textures to your liking

In this article, we will show you how to make applesauce at home using a slow cooker, stovetop, and a simple three-ingredient recipe. We’ll also share some tips for achieving the perfect texture, choosing the best apples, and canning and storing the applesauce for later use. Let’s get started!

II. Slow Cooker Applesauce Recipe for Busy Bees

If you’re short on time, but still want to make homemade applesauce, this recipe is perfect for you. Here’s what you’ll need:

12-14 medium-sized apples (any variety, peeled and cored)
1/2 cup of water
1/4 cup of brown sugar (optional)
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Step 1: Place the apples, water, and brown sugar (if using) in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Cover and cook on a low setting for 6-8 hours, or high setting for 3-4 hours, or until the apples are soft and mushy

Step 3: Uncover the slow cooker and stir in the cinnamon (if using). Use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend to the desired consistency

Step 4: Serve warm, at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to one week.

You can adjust the recipe to your liking by adding more sugar or cinnamon depending on your preference. Some people also like to add other spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger. For serving, you can enjoy the applesauce as a snack, dessert, or as a side dish for pork chops or chicken.

III. Homemade Applesauce on the Stove: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making applesauce on the stovetop is another simple method that requires only a few basic ingredients:

12-14 medium-sized apples (any variety, peeled and cored)
1/2 cup of water
1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Step 1: Cut the apples into quarters and place them in a large pot with water and honey (if using).

Step 2: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are soft and tender.

Step 3: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes before blending with an immersion blender or potato masher until smooth.

Step 4: Stir in the cinnamon (if using) and let the applesauce cool completely before serving or storing in the refrigerator for up to one week.

You can add more water or honey to achieve your desired texture and sweetness. You can also experiment with different apple varieties to create unique flavor combinations

IV. Quick and Easy Applesauce: 3-Ingredient Recipe

This recipe is the easiest of all and requires just three basic ingredients:

4-5 large apples (any variety)
1/2 cup of water
2 tablespoons of lemon juice

Step 1: Cut the apples into chunks, discarding the core and seeds.

Step 2: In a saucepan, combine apples, water, and lemon juice and cook on medium heat until the apples are soft and tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Use an immersion blender or a potato masher to mash the apples until smooth.

Step 4: Serve warm or cold, or store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

This recipe is perfect if you’re short on time and don’t want to spend too much time cooking. You can adjust the lemon juice to your liking or even replace it with orange juice or apple cider for a different taste.

V. Cinnamon Spiced Applesauce with a Twist

If you love cinnamon, this recipe is for you. Here’s what you’ll need:

8-10 apples (any variety)
1/2 cup of water
1/4 cup of sugar
2-3 cinnamon sticks
2-3 cloves(optional)

Step 1: Peel and core the apples and cut them into small pieces.

Step 2: In a large pot, mix the apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks (and cloves if using) and bring to a boil.

Step 3: Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are soft and mushy.

Step 4: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks and blend the mixture until smooth.

Step 5: Serve warm or refrigerate for later use.

You can adjust the amount of cinnamon or cloves according to your preference. You can also add other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor profile. This applesauce is great as a dessert or side dish.

VI. Tips and Tricks for Perfect Applesauce Every Time

Whether you’re a new or seasoned cook, here are some tips to keep in mind for achieving the perfect applesauce:

Select the right apples: The best apples for applesauce are those that are sweet and tart, like honeycrisp, braeburn, or granny smith. Avoid using mushy or mealy apples like red delicious.
Texture: If you like chunky applesauce, leave it that way. If you prefer it smooth, use an immersion blender, a potato masher, or a food processor to blend to the desired texture.
Sweetness: Taste the applesauce as you cook and add sugar, honey, or maple syrup according to your liking.

VII. Best Apples for Homemade Applesauce

As mentioned earlier, choosing the right apple for your recipe is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

If you prefer sweet applesauce, then you should opt for apples that are sweet, like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Ambrosia. If you prefer tart applesauce, use apples that are naturally tart like Granny Smith or Braeburn.

You can also create unique flavor combinations by mixing different apple varieties. For example, you can mix honeycrisp and granny smith apples for a sweet and tart flavor or jazz and pink lady apples for a unique and fruity taste.

VIII. How to Can and Store Applesauce for Later Use

If you’re planning to make a large batch of applesauce and want to preserve it for later use, canning is the best option. Here are the steps:

Prepare your canning jars and lids by washing them with soap and hot water and sterilizing them in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
Fill the hot, sterilized jars with hot applesauce, leaving 1/4 inch headspace at the top.
Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
Place the jars in a canner or large pot filled with boiling water and process for 20-25 minutes.
Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool. Check the seals, label, and store in a cool dry place for up to one year

To store applesauce in the refrigerator, make sure it is tightly covered or sealed in an airtight container. It should last for up to one week.

IX. Conclusion

Homemade applesauce is a delicious and nutritious treat that is easy to make. By following these simple recipes and tips, you can create your own customized applesauce while avoiding preservatives.

Experiment with different apple varieties and spice combinations, try canning for long-term storage, and enjoy the health benefits of this versatile snack.