Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

30-Minute Stovetop Applesauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 1 review

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings (2 tablespoons per serving)
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This 30-Minute Stovetop Applesauce recipe delivers a quick, homemade fruit condiment that’s naturally sweetened and lightly spiced. Made from fresh apples simmered gently with lemon juice, cinnamon, and optional cardamom, this versatile applesauce can be prepared chunky or smooth to suit your preference. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or ingredient in baking, this applesauce is simple, wholesome, and ready in just half an hour.

Ingredients

Applesauce Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds apples (about 4 medium or 3 large apples)
  • 1/2 cup filtered water
  • 2-4 tablespoons brown sugar (more or less to taste)
  • 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
  • pinch sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into 1/2-inch pieces. You should have about 3 cups of diced apple to start the sauce.
  2. Simmer Apples: Place the diced apples in a medium saucepan along with filtered water and lemon juice. Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally. Apples should start to soften and break down; some apple varieties may take a little longer.
  3. Add Sweeteners and Spices: Stir in the brown sugar to taste, then add ground cinnamon, optional ground cardamom, and a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor.
  4. Mash for Chunky Texture: For chunky applesauce, directly mash the softened apples in the saucepan using a potato masher until you reach your desired chunkiness.
  5. Blend for Smooth Texture: For a smoother sauce, run the softened apples through a food mill fitted with a coarse screen or pulse a few times in a food processor. Aim for a saucy consistency without making it too liquid.
  6. Simmer to Thicken: Return the applesauce to medium-low heat and gently simmer while stirring regularly for 3 to 5 minutes or until thick and saucy. Simmer longer if a thicker consistency is preferred. Adjust the seasoning with additional brown sugar, spices, or lemon juice if desired.
  7. Cool and Store: Allow the applesauce to cool to lukewarm temperature, then transfer it into a clean jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for up to two months to preserve freshness.

Notes

  • Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor; Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work well.
  • Adjust brown sugar according to your preferred sweetness or opt for maple syrup as a substitute.
  • Cardamom adds a subtle spice; omit if you prefer a more traditional flavor.
  • This applesauce can be enjoyed warm or chilled depending on preference.
  • Leftover applesauce freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers for convenient use later.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/30-minute-stovetop-applesauce-recipe/