Not too sweet with the perfect amount of spice!
Making food at home doesn’t have to be complicated. This homemade spiced applesauce is easy to make and nutritious. Skip the packaged version and make this recipe for kids and adults to enjoy!
Homemade applesauce offers a range of benefits, both in terms of nutrition and taste, compared to store-bought varieties.
Nutritional Content: Homemade applesauce typically contains only apples and possibly a small amount of sweetener if desired. This means it’s free from added preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive sugars often found in store-bought versions. You have control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier final product.
High in Fiber: Apples are naturally high in fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Homemade applesauce retains the fiber content of the whole fruit, especially if you leave the skins on when making it.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants: Apples are a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. They also contain various antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Homemade applesauce preserves these nutrients better than processed versions.
Lower in Added Sugar: Many commercial applesauce brands contain added sugars or high-fructose corn syrup to enhance sweetness. When making homemade applesauce, you can control the amount of sweetener or even omit it entirely, resulting in a healthier option for those monitoring their sugar intake.
Versatility: Homemade applesauce can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can choose the type of apples you prefer, adjust the level of sweetness, and even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. This versatility allows you to create a sauce that complements various dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Cost-Effective: Making applesauce at home can be more cost-effective than buying it pre-made. Especially if you have access to inexpensive or homegrown apples, you can make a large batch of applesauce for a fraction of the cost of store-bought versions.
Reduced Environmental Impact: By making your own applesauce, you can reduce packaging waste associated with store-bought products. You can also support local farmers by using locally grown apples, which can have a lower carbon footprint compared to apples transported over long distances.
Overall, homemade applesauce provides a nutritious, flavorful, and customizable alternative to store-bought options, offering numerous health benefits and environmental advantages.
Homemade Spiced Applesauce
Ingredients
- 6-7 medium apples of your choice i used gala
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg optional
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves optional
- 1/2 cup of water or apple juice juice of 1/2 lemon pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
- Using cleaned apples, peel and chop into pieces
- To a pot add chopped apples, spices, sugar, water or juice
- Simmer on medium heat until soft
- Using a potato masher, mash apples until desired consistency (can also use a blender for a smoother texture)
- Serve warm or refrigerate until cold & enjoy!
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