If you’ve never made homemade cinnamon applesauce, you’re in for a treat. This easy recipe comes together with simple ingredients and lets the natural sweetness of fresh apples shine. A touch of cinnamon adds cozy flavor without the need for refined sugar, making it a healthier alternative to many store-bought applesauces.
Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, a kid-friendly side dish, an applesauce recipe for meal prep, or a versatile ingredient for baking, this homemade version is easy to customize and tastes so much better than anything from the grocery store.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Applesauce
- Delicious warm or chilled
- Naturally sweetened
- No refined sugar
- Easy one-pot recipe
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Kid-friendly
- Great for babies and toddlers (if appropriate)
- Perfect for meal prep
- Freezer-friendly
Why Make Homemade Applesauce?
Many store-bought applesauces contain added sugars or unnecessary ingredients. Making applesauce at home gives you complete control over the sweetness and texture while highlighting the fresh flavor of seasonal apples.
Homemade applesauce is also:
- Budget-friendly
- Great for using extra apples
- Easy to customize with spices
- Perfect for healthy snacks
- Wonderful for baking recipes
Best Apples for Homemade Applesauce
Include varieties such as:
- Honeycrisp
- Fuji
- Gala
- Pink Lady
- Golden Delicious
- Granny Smith (for tartness)
- Jonagold
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8-10 small to medium apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
Of course, some of the ingredients are up to your own preference, like the cloves. But I guarantee you will love this combination and it might even become your new family staple!
How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce
- Peel and chop the apples.
- Add apples, cinnamon, and liquid to a large pot.
- Simmer until the apples are tender.
- Mash or blend to your preferred consistency.
- Cool before serving or storing.
Tips for the Best Applesauce
- Taste before adding any sweetener.
- Use a combination of apple varieties.
- Simmer low and slow for deeper flavor.
- Blend for silky smooth applesauce.
- Leave chunks if you prefer rustic texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best apples for homemade applesauce?
The best apples for homemade applesauce depend on your preferred flavor and texture. Naturally sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Golden Delicious create a smooth, sweet applesauce with little to no added sweetener. If you enjoy a slightly tart flavor, try mixing in Granny Smith or Pink Lady apples for extra depth.
Do I have to peel the apples?
No! You can leave the peels on if you’re using a high-powered blender or immersion blender, which will create a smooth texture while adding a little extra fiber. If you prefer a silky-smooth applesauce or don’t plan to blend it, peeling the apples first is the best option.
How long does homemade applesauce last?
Store homemade applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. As it chills, the flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can you freeze homemade applesauce?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or silicone freezer cubes. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Is homemade applesauce healthier than store-bought?
Homemade applesauce can be a great option because you control exactly what goes into it. Many store-bought applesauces contain added sugars or preservatives, while homemade versions can be made with just apples, cinnamon, and a few simple ingredients.
Can babies and toddlers eat this homemade applesauce?
Yes! As long as your child is developmentally ready for applesauce and your pediatrician hasn’t advised otherwise, this recipe can be a great option. For younger babies, consider leaving out any added sweeteners and blending the applesauce until completely smooth.
Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce
Ingredients
- 8-10 small to medium apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
Instructions
- Peel all apples and dice into cubes, removing the core (I like keeping the skin on about half of them and peeling the rest).
- Add to a large pot with lemon, water and spices. Turn heat on medium, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-40 minutes.
- Once apples are soft, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the apples. If you prefer applesauce on the chunky side, I wouldn't use the immersion blender. However, if you like it smooth, I would definitely recommend!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
If you don’t like nutmeg, should you add extra cinnamon to make up for the loss of the nutmeg?