If you’ve never tried to make your own applesauce – you must try it. It’s one of those simple things that you will wonder why you haven’t been doing it for years. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and you know exactly what the ingredients are – no high fructose corn syrup here.
And don’t forget, applesauce is good for more than just a snack. There are some great recipes for cakes and cookies that use applesauce, and of course, applesauce is perfect with meats like pork, but also served with potato pancakes and French toast.
We’re not gonna lie…unlike store bought applesauce, you will have an investment in time and dollars, but we think the taste justifies the means. We’ll start by saying – each recipe varies by cook time and it may take anywhere from 90 minutes to 4.5 hours to complete your project. Additionally, you will have some expenses for jars and ingredients. It is not cheaper, it is not faster, but it is worth it.
NOTE: Fresh applesauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 10 days to three weeks and the shelf life is much longer if you preserve (can) and store your unopened jars for later use.
We gathered up some of the best recipes from the traditional, to the more adventurous to get you started putting some love into your own wholesome applesauce delight.
Homemade Applesauce
The best way to start is with a traditional homemade applesauce recipe like this version from Grow A Good Life that includes some tips and tool info as well as how to can that are perfect for the first timer.
We truly believe a crockpot was a cooking tool before its time and everyone should have one. So many meals make the table and prevent takeout thanks to this wonder of the kitchen and we love that we can make applesauce this way as well thanks to this recipe from Yummy Healthy Easy.
Most people think of pureed applesauce, but some people love a heartier, chunkier applesauce. Here’s a great recipe from Pastry Affair.
Maple Cinnamon Applesauce
Cinnamon applesauce has long been a popular favorite but we love the addition of maple in this recipe from Real Food Real Deals.
Strawberry Applesauce
It’s no surprise that the sweet flavor combo of strawberries and apples has created fans around the country and Texan Erin has a great recipe that is just two ingredients – apples and strawberries! Now that’s clean eating.
Red Hot Applesauce
Be still our tastebuds – this has got to be a showstopper. Yes, Crazy Coupon Girl makes applesauce with red hot candies. I don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to try it.
Vanilla Bean Honeycrisp Applesauce
This applesauce version sounds very decadent and makes total sense that it would come from the Self Proclaimed Foodie blogger.
Fruit & Spice Applesauce Blends
And finally, here’s a few blended options from the Yummy Life including Blueberry Vanilla, Cranberry Clove and Peach Ginger, and they all sound yummy!
Remember, you don’t have to tackle 20 pounds of apples all at once. Start with a small batch and a recipe that works for you. Peels on, peels off, on the stove, in the crockpot, in the refrigerator or in the jar makes no difference. What matters is that you took the time to add a little love to your cooking and you were #WholesomeToTheCore. #EatWholesome #BeWholesome
Be sure to look for our Rainier Fruit and Rainier Organic brand apples at a local store near you and pick up your favorite apples ready for snacking or making applesauce.