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Easy Healthy Homemade Applesauce Recipe (No Sugar Added)

Easy Healthy Homemade Applesauce Recipe (No Sugar Added)

This naturally sweet homemade applesauce is made with fresh apples, water, and optional cinnamon and lemon juice. It can be mashed chunky or blended smooth, making it an easy snack, breakfast topping, or side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pounds Apples, about 8–10 medium
  • 1/2 cup Water
Optional Flavor Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch Salt

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Wash the apples, peel them if desired, remove the cores, and cut the apples into 1-inch chunks.
  2. Place the apple chunks in a large saucepan with the water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and pinch of salt.
  3. Cover the saucepan and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and easily pierced with a fork. Add a tablespoon or two of water only if the pan becomes dry.
  5. Mash the cooked apples with a potato masher for chunky applesauce, or process with an immersion blender or food processor for a smooth texture.
  6. Taste and adjust the cinnamon or lemon juice if needed. Cool before serving because the applesauce thickens slightly as it cools.

Notes

Naturally sweet apples usually need no added sweetener. Refrigerate in a covered container for up to 5–7 days, or freeze for about 2–3 months with headspace left in the container for expansion.