Apples are one of the most versatile and beloved fruits, and when cooked down into a sweet and tangy applesauce, they become a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking to add some warm spices to your fall baking routine or want a healthy snack for the kids, there’s an applesauce recipe out there for every season and occasion. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different homemade applesauce recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and spice up your mealtime routine.
From classic cinnamon-infused sauces to more adventurous flavors like rosemary-lemon and caramel swirl, each of these recipes is a delicious and creative take on the traditional apple sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with simple instructions and ingredient lists for every recipe.
Classic Cinnamon Applesauce
Bring a hint of warm spice to your snack time with this classic cinnamon applesauce recipe. Perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a dip for fruit.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the water to the pot and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce-like consistency.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let the applesauce cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Spiced Applesauce
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it a great addition to your snack routine or as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time!
Ingredients:
• 4-5 apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Chunky Homestyle Applesauce
This chunky homestyle applesauce recipe is a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream. With its coarse texture and sweet flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into large chunks.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple chunks, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to coarsely puree the applesauce to your desired chunkiness.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple-Glazed Applesauce
Sweet and tangy, Maple-Glazed Applesauce is a delicious twist on traditional applesauce. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of pure maple syrup for a perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, maple syrup, butter, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture to desired consistency.
4. Serve warm or let cool and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Applesauce
This classic applesauce recipe gets a luxurious twist with the addition of vanilla bean, creating a warm and comforting snack or dessert perfect for any time of year. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, vanilla bean, sugar, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple-Pear Sauce with Cardamom
This sweet and spicy sauce is a perfect blend of autumn’s finest fruits, infused with the unique flavor of cardamom. Enjoy it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or use it as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe apples, peeled and chopped
• 1 ripe pear, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples and pears.
2. Add the sugar, water, and ground cardamom to the fruit mixture.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruits are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ginger-Infused Applesauce
Warm up with a flavorful twist on classic applesauce by infusing it with the spicy, aromatic goodness of fresh ginger. This sweet and savory condiment is perfect for topping oatmeal, yogurt, or using as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, grated ginger, and salt.
2. Add the water to the pan and stir to coat the apples evenly.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender or mash with a potato masher to desired consistency.
5. Let cool to room temperature before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Berry-Apple Blended Sauce
Perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a dip for fruit, this berry-apple blended sauce is a delicious and healthy treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet and tangy blend that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the mixed berries, diced apples, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the water and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
Cooking Time: None – this sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Caramel Swirl Applesauce
This sweet and tangy applesauce is elevated by a rich caramel swirl, perfect for topping pork chops, yogurt, or using as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked apples (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apples, brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F on a candy thermometer (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in caramel sauce until well combined.
4. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Serve chilled, with an optional sprinkle of sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pumpkin-Spiced Applesauce
This autumnal twist on classic applesauce combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a deliciously cozy condiment perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups chopped apples (any variety, such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped apples, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer (about 10 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in apple cider vinegar and remove from heat.
5. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary-Lemon Applesauce
Elevate your snacking game with this refreshing and aromatic take on traditional applesauce. The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the earthy essence of rosemary, making for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tsp)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, olive oil, and rosemary.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture reaches your desired level of chunkiness (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
4. Let the applesauce cool before serving or storing in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple-Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for topping pork chops, stuffing, or using as a side dish during the holiday season. Made with tender apples and plump cranberries, this recipe is easy to make and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, chopped apples, sugar, orange juice, and honey.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon.
5. Let cool to room temperature before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Sugar Bourbon Applesauce
This sweet and tangy applesauce is infused with the rich flavors of brown sugar, bourbon, and a hint of cinnamon, making it a perfect addition to your autumnal gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider or water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, bourbon (if using), cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the apple cider or water to the mixture and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tropical Applesauce with Pineapple
Combine the sweetness of apples with the tropical twist of pineapple and spices to create a unique and delicious dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the water to the mixture and stir until combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Herb Applesauce
Elevate your snack game with this savory take on traditional applesauce. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavors of herbs, creating a delicious and addictive condiment perfect for pairing with pork chops, roasted vegetables, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped apples, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple-Plum Sauce with Cinnamon
Transform your fall gatherings into a cozy haven with this scrumptious Apple-Plum Sauce with Cinnamon. This sweet and tangy condiment is perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or using as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 large plum, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces (about 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apples, plum, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
2. Add water and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the fruit is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey-Ginger Applesauce
A sweet and tangy twist on classic applesauce, this recipe adds a hint of warm honey and spicy ginger for a delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, honey, and grated ginger.
2. Add the water to the pan and stir until the apples are coated with the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple-Rhubarb Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of autumn, combining tender apples and rhubarb with a hint of spice. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside yogurt, oatmeal, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples and rhubarb.
2. Add the sugar, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the water to the mixture and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the compote cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy world of applesauce with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic cinnamon to maple-glazed, and from chunky homestyle to pumpkin-spiced, each recipe is carefully crafted to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of warm spices or bold flavors, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection. With ingredients ranging from vanilla bean to brown sugar bourbon, these applesauce recipes are perfect for every season. So go ahead, get creative, and make the most of this delicious and versatile spread!
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