Homemade Applesauce is one of the most delicious dishes you can make from scratch, and it is quick and easy to make.

Applesauce is a very versatile food, you can use applesauce in so many different ways; as a snack, a side dish, even as an ingredient. Here are a few ideas:

• Make applesauce pancakes, perfect for fall!
• Make applesauce muffins or breads.
• Applesauce over pork chops as a delicious accompaniment.
• Substitute apple sauce for the oil in many baked goods.
• Spoon warm applesauce over ice cream and sprinkle with a little cinnamon.
• Top French toast or pancakes with a spoonful of applesauce in place of syrup.
• Eat a bowl of applesauce for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Apples vary in their sweetness level, depending on the variety and how late in the season they are picked. The amount of sugar you add will depend on how sweet your apples are, and how sweet you would like your applesauce to be. Consider using brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor, or white sugar for a more pure apple taste.  This recipe is just a guideline, please adjust the sugar amounts to your taste. You can even leave the sugar out all together if you are using sweet apples.  If you use less sugar than this recipe suggest, you will likely want to reduce the amount of lemon juice as well. The lemon juice brightens the flavor of the apples and balances the sweetness.  The good news is that you can adjust the flavor to your liking once the cooking is complete.  This is a no-fail recipe!

Homemade Applesauce

Makes 12 Servings

Ingredients:

6 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and cut into slices

1 cup apple juice or apple cider

Juice of 1 lemon

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon cinnamon, more or less to taste

Optional ingredients: nutmeg, maple syrup, allspice, butter

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a large pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 25 minutes, or until apples are softened and can be easily mashed.  If desired, applesauce can be left chunky.  If you prefer a smoother consistency, carefully puree applesauce in a food processor or blender (don’t fill too full; split into two portions if needed).  Place into jars or plastic containers and store in the refrigerator.  Applesauce can also be placed into freezer bags, labeled and frozen for later use.