Homemade Applesauce – Basic Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of mixed apples (e.g. Golden Delicious, Gala, Honeycrisp or Mackintosh; about 4), peeled and sliced
• Up to 2 tbsp. sugar
• Lemon juice, to taste

Preparation:

1. Combine the apples, sugar, and 1/2 cup water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium; cover and simmer until the apples are very soft and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 20 minutes (or microwave in a large microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 10 minutes).
2. Add lemon juice to the applesauce to taste, then transfer to a blender or food processor and puree (or puree in a saucepan with an immersion blender).
3. Transfer the applesauce to a bowl and refrigerate until completely chilled.
   
   

   Flavorings:

   
   
   Apricot
   Stir in 1/4 cup apricot jam.
   
   Raspberry
   Add 1 cup raspberries while the applesauce is still warm; mash lightly.
   
   Spiced cranberry
   While the applesauce is still warm, stir in 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 cup dried cranberries.