If you’re in the mood for a cozy homemade treat, this Cinnamon Vanilla Applesauce will hit the spot. With its fragrant spices and natural sweetness, it’s the perfect companion for chilly weather or a comforting snack. Best of all, it's incredibly simple to make at home!
Apples: Choosing a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Fuji and Granny Smith, gives the sauce a more nuanced flavor. Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness, but you can adjust the amount based on your apples' natural sweetness. Water: Helps break down the apples as they cook. Apple cider: Adds depth and enhances the apple flavor. Cinnamon: Provides warmth and spice, a classic pairing with apples. Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and rounds out the flavors. Nutmeg: Just a dash for that subtle earthy flavor that complements the cinnamon. Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
This applesauce makes a great topping for pancakes or waffles. It’s also delicious when served warm alongside pork dishes. For a simple dessert, try it over vanilla ice cream or yogurt. And honestly, it's pretty fantastic all on its own as a snack.
Start by preparing your apples. If peeling and coring isn't your favorite activity, try using an apple peeler-corer-slicer for efficiency. Once you have the apples quartered, place them in a large pot. Add in the sugar, water, and apple cider. Set the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
As soon as it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. You'll know it's ready when the apples are fork-tender and easily mashed.
Remove the pot from the heat, then decide on your preferred texture. For a chunky applesauce, a potato masher works wonders. If you prefer it smooth, use an immersion blender or a regular blender. Just remember to let it cool a bit if using the latter to avoid any hot splatters.
Once you have your desired consistency, stir in the cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined, and then let it cool before serving or storing.
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