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The Best Easy Homemade Applesauce Recipe (Stovetop Method)

Close-up of rich, brown spiced applesauce served in a small white bowl, highlighted by sunlight.

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Make naturally sweet, flavorful homemade applesauce quickly on the stovetop. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lbs apples (like Gala or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Place the chopped apples and water into a large pot.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  5. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the mixture to a standard blender and process until smooth. For chunky applesauce, mash the apples lightly with a potato masher or fork.
  6. Serve warm or chill completely before storing.

Notes

  • For slow cooker applesauce, combine all ingredients in a 4-quart slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Mash or blend as desired.
  • This recipe requires no added sugar; the natural sweetness of the apples is sufficient.
  • This applesauce freezes well for up to three months.

Nutrition