This Unsweetened Applesauce recipe only requires 4 ingredients and is the perfect way to use the abundance of apples in the Fall. It comes out thick, flavorful and packed with cinnamon.
I can't make enough apple recipes this year! I've been creating so many fun and delicious recipes like Caramelized Apples and Apple Turnovers with Phyllo Dough. I love how apples add a sweet-tart element to baked goods, and they are so delicious with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger.
But sometimes I find myself with too many apples on hand. And that's when this Unsweetened Applesauce recipe comes in handy! This recipe is an easy and delicious way to use up bruised or wrinkly apples, and a quick way to use up a bunch of apples if you have found yourself with too many. So let's make it!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is so easy to make!
- And it requires just 4 simple ingredients.
- This Unsweetened Applesauce recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, so anyone can enjoy it!
- It is great on its own, and it can also be used in baking recipes.
- But most importantly, it is absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
Apples: I like to use a mix of sweet and tart apples for this recipe. So I chose Fugi and Granny Smith. You can make applesauce out of any apples, though, so use whatever you have on hand.
Cinnamon: I can't resist adding cinnamon to every single apple recipe I make!
Lemon Juice: A little bit of lemon juice balances the applesauce.
Salt: A pinch of kosher salt enhances all of the flavors.
Variations
I like to peel the apples for this recipe, but if you like a super chunky applesauce, feel free to leave the skin on the apples.
Special Equipment
Depending on how smooth you like your applesauce, you will need either a potato masher or an immersion blender for this recipe.
Instructions
Step 1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into about 1.5" chunks.
Step 2. Add the chopped apples, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon into a 4 to 5-quart Dutch oven.
Step 3. Place the pot over medium heat until the water boils.
Then, reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook the apples, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes.
Next, remove the lid and continue cooking for 10 more minutes or until they are soft and begin to break apart on their own.
Step 4. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash or blend the unsweetened applesauce to your desired texture.
I wanted a smooth applesauce today, so I used an immersion blender.
Recipe FAQs
Scoop it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can use any type of apple to make applesauce. But my favorites are Fugi, Gala, Granny Smith, and McIntosh.
You end up with a chunkier applesauce. So, if you prefer a smooth applesauce, peel the apples!
No! You just and up with a thicker applesauce that is closer in texture to apple butter.
Uses
- Eat it on its own as a snack.
- Use it to top oatmeal.
- Use in any recipe that calls for applesauce like my Oatmeal Applesauce Muffins or Vegan Apple Bread.
Expert Recipe Tips
I like to cook the applesauce uncovered for the last 10 minutes so the water can evaporate and so the flavors and natural sugar can concentrate. This yields a thick and flavorful unsweetened applesauce with no added sugar!
Be careful when mashing or immersion blending! The applesauce is very hot.
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📖 Recipe
Unsweetened Applesauce Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Knife and Vegetable Peeler
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 4-5 Quart Dutch Oven or other heavy-bottomed pot
- 1 Immersion Blender or potato masher
Ingredients
- 2 ½ Pounds Apples see note
- ¾ Cups Water
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 pinch Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Peel, core and chop the apples into 1 ½" chunks. Or, if you like a chunky applesauce, don't peel the apples.2 ½ Pounds Apples
- Combine the apples, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt into a 4 to 5 quart Dutch oven or other heavy bottomed pot. Place the pot over medium heat until the water reaches a boil.¾ Cups Water, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, ½ teaspoon Cinnamon, 1 pinch Kosher Salt
- Then, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes. Then, remove the lid and allow the apples to continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the apples start to break down on their own.
- Remove the pot from heat, then use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash or blend the applesauce to your desired texture. If you like a chunkier applesauce, use the masher. If you like a smooth applesauce, immersion blend it.
- Allow to cool slightly and serve immediately, or pack into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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