There is something incredibly cozy about a warm, spiced fruit treat that feels like a hug from the inside, and that’s exactly what you get with this delectable Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe. It strikes the perfect balance of natural apple sweetness and comforting cinnamon warmth, turning simple ingredients into a luscious sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome snack, a classic side, or a versatile addition to your meals, this applesauce recipe is destined to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the best dishes come from the simplest ingredients, and this Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe is no exception. Each element is carefully selected to enhance the natural flavors and create the ideal texture and aroma that make this applesauce so irresistible.
- 3 pounds apples: Peeled, cored, and chopped, about 6 medium apples, fresh and tart for a perfect base.
- â…“ cup water: Helps cook the apples gently without diluting the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tartness, but you can adjust based on your apple variety.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds that warm, spicy note that makes applesauce feel like autumn in a bowl.
How to Make Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Simmer
Start by mixing all your ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. This gentle simmer allows the apples to soften without losing their vibrant flavor and ensures the cinnamon infuses throughout perfectly.
Step 2: Cook Until Tender
Let the apples cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they become very tender when poked with a fork. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly; this step intensifies the flavors and gives the applesauce a lovely, rich texture.
Step 3: Mash or Puree
Here’s where you customize the texture to your taste: mash the apples with a potato masher if you prefer a chunky sauce full of apple bits, or use an immersion blender to create a silky-smooth applesauce that feels like a creamy dessert.
Step 4: Serve Warm or Chill
The magic of this Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe is that it’s wonderful whether served warm straight from the pot or chilled for later. Each way highlights different facets of its flavor and texture, making it incredibly versatile and enjoyable year-round.
How to Serve Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top elevates your applesauce to a special treat. Try sprinkling a pinch of extra cinnamon, a handful of toasted chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and texture contrast that keeps every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This applesauce shines when paired with pork chops, roasted chicken, or even drizzled over pancakes or waffles. It also complements hearty dishes like meatloaf or can be enjoyed alongside a cheese platter, making it a surprisingly versatile companion at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your homemade applesauce layered between yogurt and granola to create a parfait, or swirl it into oatmeal or smoothies to infuse a natural apple-cinnamon flavor. It also makes a fantastic base for baked goods like muffins or as a topping for ice cream!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade applesauce will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors tend to deepen and meld even more after a day or two, so leftovers make an excellent quick snack or breakfast addition.
Freezing
This Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge or gently warm it before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the applesauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Microwave reheating works too—just cover loosely to prevent splattering and stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Combining tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Gala creates a more complex flavor. Feel free to experiment based on what’s available or your personal preference.
Is there a way to make this applesauce sugar-free?
Yes, you can omit the granulated sugar entirely, especially if your apples are naturally sweet. The cinnamon adds plenty of flavor, and cooking the apples down enhances their natural sugars, keeping the sauce delicious without added sweetness.
How long does homemade applesauce last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your applesauce will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. Always check for any off smells or molds before eating if it’s been stored for longer.
Can I make this recipe vegan or allergy-friendly?
This recipe is naturally vegan and free from common allergens like nuts or dairy. Just be sure to check your cinnamon for any cross-contamination if you have severe sensitivities.
What’s the best way to get a smooth texture?
Using an immersion blender or regular blender after the apples are cooked will yield a smooth, creamy texture. If you like it extra silky, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve for a more refined finish.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe is like bringing a bit of comfort and nostalgia straight into your kitchen. It’s effortless to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Once you’ve whipped up this warm, fragrant applesauce, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Trust me, it’s going to be one of those dishes you reach for again and again.
Print
Homemade Applesauce with Cinnamon Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic homemade applesauce recipe is a simple and comforting treat made from fresh peeled and chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon. It is gently simmered until tender and thickened, then mashed or blended to your desired texture. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or ingredient in other recipes, this applesauce can be served warm or chilled.
Ingredients
Applesauce Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6 medium)
- â…“ cup water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the peeled, cored, and chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon into a saucepan. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the apples become very tender.
- Thicken: Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This helps thicken the applesauce by evaporating excess liquid.
- Mash or Blend: Use a potato masher to crush the apples for a chunky texture, or use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth, depending on your preference.
- Serve: Serve the applesauce warm for a cozy treat, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Notes
- You can adjust the sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your apples and your personal taste preference.
- For a smoother consistency, blend thoroughly with an immersion blender; for a rustic texture, mash by hand.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Try adding a splash of lemon juice if you want to balance the sweetness and preserve the color.
