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Easy Stovetop Homemade Applesauce Recipe

A small white bowl filled with chunky, spiced applesauce, with fresh red apples blurred in the background.

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Make this easy stovetop homemade applesauce recipe using simple ingredients. This naturally sweet side dish captures the cozy aroma of fall and is perfect for snacks or baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds apples (such as Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples. You may peel them if you prefer, but peeling is optional for this recipe. Core the apples and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
  2. Place the apple chunks and water into a large pot or Dutch oven.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are very tender.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, if using.
  6. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture carefully to a standard blender and process until smooth. For chunky applesauce, mash the apples with a potato masher to your desired consistency.
  7. Serve the homemade applesauce warm, or chill completely before serving as a healthy snack or side dish.

Notes

  • For a naturally sweeter applesauce, choose naturally sweet apples like Fuji or Gala.
  • This recipe makes a great base for spiced applesauce; adjust cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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