Are you craving a comforting, homemade treat that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this delightful applesauce recipe, inspired by the classic Betty Crocker touch. Forget store-bought; this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, creating a wholesome dessert or healthy snack the entire family will love. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe is perfect for your next quick dinner idea or simple homemade cooking project.
Ingredients: A Blend of Autumn Flavors
This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of delicious applesauce. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or to taste, depending on apple sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional, for a deeper spice flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor and prevent browning)
Instructions: Simple Steps to Homemade Happiness
Making this applesauce is easier than you think! Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect batch every time.
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Prep the Apples: Wash and peel the apples. Core them and chop into roughly 1-inch pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
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Simmer the Apples: Combine the chopped apples and water in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Spice it Up: Add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and lemon juice (if using). Stir well to combine the spices and sugar evenly throughout the apples.
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Cook to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are completely tender and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The cooking time will depend on the type of apples and their ripeness.
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Mash and Enjoy: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the applesauce cool slightly. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the apples to your desired consistency. For a chunky applesauce, mash less; for a smoother consistency, mash more thoroughly.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the applesauce and add more sugar or spices if needed, according to your preference.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Applesauce Game
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavor profiles. A blend of sweet and tart apples often yields the best results.
- Sweetener: Reduce the sugar or use a healthier alternative like maple syrup or honey for a delicious, healthy meal option.
- Spices: Feel free to customize the spices to your liking. A dash of allspice or ginger can add interesting dimensions.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Storage: Store leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully!
Nutritional Information (per 1/2 cup serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This delicious applesauce is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's perfect as a side dish, a topping for oatmeal or yogurt, or simply enjoyed on its own as a wholesome and satisfying snack. Enjoy your homemade culinary masterpiece!