Homemade Applesauce

A simple, naturally sweet applesauce made by simmering apples with a few ingredients until soft, then mashing to desired consistency.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 8 ½-cup servings

Course: Condiment, Side

Calories: 196

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Applesauce Base

4 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (in small pieces)
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar (packed)
Ground cinnamon (for serving) optional

Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Potato masher or fork

Method

Preheat oven to 400 °F (205 °C).
Place the apple chunks in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Scatter the butter and brown sugar over the apples.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until apples are very tender.
Remove foil and mash the apples with a potato masher or fork to your desired consistency. If the applesauce is too tart, add additional brown sugar little by little.
Serve warm or chilled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

No extra water is needed because the apples release their own juices when baked. The flavor depends on the mix of apple varieties used, so feel free to combine tart and sweet types. (Adapted from Once Upon a Chef) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}