Cinnamon applesauce is a delicious and simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm spice of cinnamon. Here’s a basic recipe to make your own cinnamon applesauce at home:
Ingredients:
- 6 large apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties works best)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, helps to preserve color)
Instructions:
- Peel, Core, and Slice Apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into small chunks.
- Cook the Apples:
- Place the apple chunks in a large pot.
- Add water and lemon juice (if using).
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the apples simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft.
- Mash the Apples:
- Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the apples to your desired consistency. You can leave it chunky or make it smooth.
- Add Sugar and Cinnamon:
- Stir in the sugar and cinnamon.
- Taste and adjust the sugar and cinnamon according to your preference.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the applesauce cool to room temperature before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips:
- For a healthier version, you can reduce or omit the sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves can enhance the spice flavor.
Cinnamon applesauce is perfect as a snack, a side dish, or a topping for pancakes, oatmeal, and more. Enjoy!