Chris' Spiced Applesauce
A warm, spiced applesauce with cinnamon and lemon that offers a comforting dessert or side, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a 4-quart saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer until apples are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother applesauce, consider using a food mill or blender after cooking. If tartness is preferred, use Granny Smith or similar apples. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples; reducing it can yield a more natural flavor. If you enjoy spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. This recipe can also be adapted for Vegan recipes by substituting sugar with maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spiced applesauce warm or chilled, perhaps as a side dish with pork or poultry. It pairs beautifully with Stack Fruit Cake or can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack. For extra flair, top with a dollop of whipped cream or serve alongside yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the applesauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chris' Spiced Applesauce contains roughly 76 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a combination of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor. Just ensure that the apples you choose are suitable for cooking, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn, which will soften nicely and blend well with the spices.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the applesauce?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar. Start with less sugar, especially if using sweet apples, and taste as you go. You can always add more sugar if desired, but remember that the flavor will develop as it cooks.
Is it possible to can this applesauce for longer storage?
Absolutely! If you want to can the applesauce, follow proper canning procedures by sterilizing jars and processing them in a water bath. This will allow you to store the applesauce for up to a year in a cool, dark place.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).