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Easy Stovetop Cinnamon Applesauce (No Sugar Added)

A small white bowl filled with chunky, spiced applesauce, sitting on a wooden surface near a bright window.

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Make the best homemade applesauce on the stovetop. This quick recipe uses fresh apples and cinnamon for a naturally sweet, healthy snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs apples (like Gala or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Place the chopped apples, water, cinnamon, and lemon juice into a large saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. The apples are done when they are very soft and easily mashable.
  5. Remove the pan from the heat. If you prefer smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a standard blender and process until smooth. For chunky applesauce, mash the apples lightly with a potato masher or fork.
  6. Taste the applesauce. If you need more sweetness, add a small amount of maple syrup or stevia, though the fruit should provide enough natural sweetness.
  7. Serve warm immediately, or cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Fuji and Granny Smith.
  • If you want a richer flavor, use apple cider instead of water.
  • This recipe is perfect for meal prep and freezes well for longer storage.

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