If you’re craving something naturally sweet, comforting, and incredibly easy to make, this apple sauce recipe is the perfect choice. Whether you’re preparing it as a healthy snack, a side dish for pork, or a topping for pancakes, this classic homemade recipe is simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor.
Forget store-bought jars—making apple sauce at home takes just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes. The result? A fresh, preservative-free sauce that’s customizable to your taste—chunky or smooth, sweetened or unsweetened, spiced or plain.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for your homemade apple sauce recipe:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work best)
- ½ cup water (or apple juice for a sweeter version)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional; adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Apples:
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces for even cooking. - Cook the Apples:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, water (or juice), sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently to mix. - Simmer Until Soft:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Mash or Blend:
For chunky apple sauce, mash the cooked apples with a potato masher.
For smooth apple sauce, transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender until desired consistency is reached. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels if needed. - Cool and Store:
Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to airtight jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 23 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
Tips & Variations
- Spiced Apple Sauce: Add cloves, nutmeg, or allspice for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
- Unsweetened Version: Skip the sugar completely—many apple varieties are naturally sweet enough.
- Chunky vs. Smooth: Adjust texture based on your preference. Blend longer for smooth, or leave chunks for rustic charm.
- Instant Pot Method: Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release steam and blend.
- Add-Ins: Stir in vanilla extract, maple syrup, or even a pinch of ginger for a creative twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Spoon over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.
- Snack: Enjoy warm or chilled by itself.
- Dessert: Use as a topping for ice cream or cakes.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside roast pork or poultry for a savory-sweet pairing.
- Baking Substitute: Replace oil or butter with apple sauce in muffins or cakes for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of apple for apple sauce?
Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith add brightness, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala make it naturally sweet. You can also mix different types for balanced flavor.
2. How long does homemade apple sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 7 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
3. Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin adds extra fiber and texture but may result in a less smooth sauce.
4. Can I can this apple sauce for long-term storage?
Yes, you can! Follow proper canning guidelines using sterilized jars and a water bath method for safe preservation.
Conclusion
This easy apple sauce recipe brings out the best in fresh apples with minimal effort. Whether you prefer it sweet or tart, smooth or chunky, it’s a wholesome addition to any meal or snack. Once you try making it at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
