Are you ready for a recipe that's both incredibly easy and surprisingly delicious? Then get ready to be amazed by this simple, yet unforgettable, Applesauce and Red Hots recipe! This unique combination of sweet applesauce and spicy cinnamon candies creates a warm, comforting, and slightly spicy treat perfect for a chilly evening or a unique dessert option. Forget complicated baking – this is homemade cooking at its simplest, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup Red Hots candies (or similar cinnamon candies)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Applesauce: Start by ensuring your applesauce is at room temperature. This helps the candies melt evenly. If using homemade applesauce, allow it to cool completely. If using store-bought, simply take it out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before starting.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, gently combine the applesauce and Red Hots candies.
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Gentle Heating: Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally, being careful not to scorch the applesauce. The goal is to gently melt the Red Hots and incorporate them into the applesauce, creating a smooth, flavorful mixture.
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Melting Magic: Continue to stir until all the Red Hots candies are completely melted and the sauce is evenly colored and thickened slightly. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness as needed. If you prefer a sweeter treat, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. For extra spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few more Red Hots.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and allow the applesauce to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. This versatile treat is delicious on its own, served with vanilla ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Applesauce and Red Hots:
- Low and Slow: The key to success is low and slow heating. High heat will burn the applesauce before the candies melt properly.
- Don't Overheat: Overheating can cause the applesauce to become too thick or even burn. Keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.
- Homemade Applesauce: If making your own applesauce, choose a variety of apples for a more complex flavor profile.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of Red Hots to your preferred level of spiciness. Start with one cup and add more gradually if you like things extra hot.
Variations:
- Spiced Applesauce: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the applesauce for extra warmth and flavor.
- Citrus Twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice adds a bright, refreshing note to the sweetness of the applesauce.
- Chocolate Delight: Stir in a few chopped dark chocolate pieces for an indulgent treat. This pairs exceptionally well with the cinnamon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary depending on portion. This recipe is best used as a small dessert or treat, not a primary meal. Nutritional information will also vary based on ingredients used. For accurate calculations, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This easy recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable and delicious dish. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for those busy weeknights, or a fantastic addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy this surprisingly delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors!