Description
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, spiced aroma of this easy homemade applesauce recipe—a cozy classic made from fresh apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. This healthy snack is perfect for both kids and adults and makes a great quick breakfast, easy dinner side, or meal prep essential. Whether you're after breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, or simply food ideas for fall, this applesauce fits the bill. Naturally sweetened and made with whole ingredients, it's freezer-friendly and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
8–10 medium apples (Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith)
1/2 cup water or apple cider
1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
1–2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1–2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Wash, peel (optional), core, and chop apples into uniform chunks.
2. Place chopped apples in a large saucepan or slow cooker. Add water or cider, lemon juice, spices, sweetener, and salt. Stir well.
3. Cook covered over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, or on low in slow cooker for 6 hours, until apples are soft.
4. Mash with a potato masher for a chunky texture, or use a blender/immersion blender for smooth applesauce.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness if needed.
6. Serve warm or cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate or freeze.
Notes
Use a blend of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.
Skip added sugar if using naturally sweet apple varieties.
The flavor deepens beautifully after a day in the fridge—great for make-ahead prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: homemade applesauce, easy recipe, fall food ideas, healthy snack, no sugar applesauce, kids snack