How to Make the Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce
American · Easy · 25 min · 6 servings
This simple homemade applesauce is naturally sweetened with honey and warmly spiced with cinnamon for a cozy snack that kids will request again and again. It is much fresher and lower in sugar than store-bought versions and takes under 30 minutes to make from scratch.
Why this recipe works
This Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 85 calories with 0g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 6 medium apples peeled cored and chopped
- 0.5 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Combine and Cook
Place the peeled and chopped apples in a medium saucepan along with the water and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat then reduce to a simmer and cover the pot.
Step 2: Simmer Until Soft
Cook the apples covered over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are completely soft and break apart easily when pressed with a spoon.
Step 3: Mash and Season
Remove the pot from heat and mash the cooked apples with a potato masher for chunky sauce or use an immersion blender for a smooth texture. Stir in honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Allow the applesauce to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. It can be served warm or chilled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- honey → maple syrup for a vegan sweetener option
- ground cinnamon → apple pie spice blend for a more complex warm flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not adding enough water at the start which causes the apples to scorch on the bottom of the pot
- Blending the applesauce while it is still too hot which can cause splattering and burns
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 85 calories, 0g protein, 22g carbs, 0g fat, 3g fiber.
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