Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

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Applesauce is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own, used as a topping or filling, or incorporated into various recipes. Making homemade applesauce is not only simple but also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. In this article, we’ll explore Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce recipe, which has received rave reviews from the Allrecipes community. We’ll guide you through the process of making this delectable dish, discuss the best apples to use, and provide tips for storing and canning your applesauce.

Let’s dive into the world of homemade applesauce and discover the secrets behind Sarah’s beloved recipe.

1. Introduction to Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce

Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce is a highly-rated recipe that has gained popularity among the Allrecipes community. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars and over 3,335 reviews, it has become a go-to recipe for many home cooks. The recipe is cherished for its simplicity, delicious taste, and the fact that it doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or equipment.

2. Ingredients and Cooking Process

To make Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
¾ cup water
¼ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

The cooking process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps:

Combine the chopped apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
Cover the saucepan and cook the mixture over medium heat until the apples are soft (approximately 15 to 20 minutes).
Allow the apple mixture to cool.
Mash the cooled apples with a fork or potato masher until you achieve your desired consistency.

3. Choosing the Best Apples for Applesauce

When it comes to choosing apples for applesauce, you have a wide variety of options. The best apples for applesauce are typically a combination of sweet and tangy varieties. Some popular sweet varieties include Honeycrisp and Fuji, while Granny Smith and Braeburn are popular tangy options. If you don’t have a specific preference, you can simply use the apples you have on hand.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Applesauce

Making homemade applesauce is a simple process that requires minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce:

Peel, core, and chop four apples.
In a saucepan, combine the chopped apples, ¾ cup of water, ¼ cup of white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Cover the saucepan and cook the mixture over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the apple mixture to cool.
Once cooled, use a fork or potato masher to mash the apples to your desired consistency. You can make it smooth or leave some chunks for added texture.
Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness or cinnamon levels according to your preference.
Serve the applesauce warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in various recipes.

5. Difference Between Applesauce and Apple Butter

While both applesauce and apple butter are made from apples, there are distinct differences between the two. Applesauce is a simple puree of cooked apples, while apple butter is a more concentrated and spiced version of applesauce. Apple butter is usually cooked for a longer period, allowing the flavors to intensify and develop a rich, caramelized taste. Unlike applesauce, apple butter often includes additional spices such as cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.

6. Pairing Applesauce with Other Dishes

Applesauce can be enjoyed in various ways and incorporated into different meals. Here are some ideas for pairing applesauce with other dishes:

Serve applesauce as a side dish alongside roasted meats such as pork chops or roasted chicken. The tangy sweetness of the applesauce complements the savory flavors of the meat.
Use applesauce as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. It adds a fruity and flavorful element to your breakfast.
Incorporate applesauce into baked goods such as muffins, cakes, and bread. It can add moisture and a hint of apple flavor to your creations.
Pair applesauce with cheese, crackers, or charcuterie for a delightful snack or appetizer.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combinations!

7. Storing Homemade Applesauce

If you have leftover applesauce or want to make a larger batch in advance, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Here’s how to store homemade applesauce:

Allow the applesauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Ensure that the container is clean and food-safe.
Store the applesauce in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent any air exposure.
Before consuming the refrigerated applesauce, give it a quick stir to recombine any separation that may have occurred.

Proper storage will help preserve the flavor and texture of your homemade applesauce.

8. Canning Homemade Applesauce

If you want to extend the shelf life of your homemade applesauce and enjoy it throughout the year, canning is a great option. Canning involves preserving the applesauce in sealed jars, allowing it to be stored for an extended period without refrigeration. Here’s a general guide to canning homemade applesauce:

Prepare your applesauce following the recipe instructions.
Sterilize canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for a few minutes.
Fill the sterilized jars with hot applesauce, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the jar rims clean to ensure a proper seal, then place the lids on the jars.
Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for the recommended time specified in a trusted canning recipe or resource.
Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool. Make sure the lids have sealed properly by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t move or make a popping sound, it has sealed correctly.
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Be sure to label the jars with the date of canning for easy reference.

Proper canning techniques are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of your preserved applesauce. It’s recommended to follow a reliable canning recipe or consult a trusted resource for detailed instructions.

9. Tips and Praise from the Allrecipes Community

The Allrecipes community has shared some valuable tips and praise for Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce. Here are a few highlights:

Lindsay raves, “Wow, was this good! I used Granny Smith apples which worked really well. Served slightly warm and was really amazing! Hadn’t made homemade applesauce before, but I definitely will again!”
Another community member shares, “I’ve been making this recipe for about 10 years now. It is the only recipe I will use. I buy a bag of Granny Smith apples, peel them, chop them, and cook them as directed. I do add more cinnamon in the recipe because I love cinnamon. Excellent recipe.”
Phaedra Conaway suggests, “Simple is often the best. I used McIntosh apples but didn’t peel them. It gave the applesauce more texture, color, and nutrition.”

The feedback from the Allrecipes community serves as a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of this homemade applesauce recipe.

10. Nutritional Information

Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce is not only tasty but also a relatively healthy option. Here’s the nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 121
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 0g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 27g
Vitamin C: 6mg
Calcium: 13mg
Iron: 0mg
Potassium: 150mg

Please note that the nutrient information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. It’s always a good idea to consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized advice.

11. User Reviews

Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from home cooks like you. Here are a few user reviews showcasing the experiences and impressions of those who have tried this recipe:

DREGINEK: “I have a 30+ lb bag of apples from our apple tree that NEED to get used up so I took a chance and QUADRUPLED this recipe… My prayers have been answered!! My apples and effort have not gone to waste! I now have an economical recipe for applesauce that tastes wonderful and EVERYONE loves!”

Anna Harris: “Simple, easy, delicious. Used a hand blender to make it more of a puree for my baby.”

Nicole LeMire: “Sarah’s recipe is going in our permanent recipe collection, we’ve already made a second batch. We added a little honey and a pinch of nutmeg ~ delicious! Bon Appetit!”

These reviews highlight the versatility and taste of Sarah’s Homemade Applesauce, making it a favorite among home cooks.