From Orchard to Table: Homemade Applesauce for Fall

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall brings a cozy blend of vibrant colors, warm sweaters and comforting scents. It’s also apple season in Washington, with a variety of delicious apples at their peak! Embrace the flavors of fall with this delicious, homemade applesauce recipe.

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Ingredients:

• 12–15 apples (mix three varieties like Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, and a red/green type like Gala, Pink Lady, Braeburn, or Fuji).
• 1 cup water.
• Cinnamon, apple pie spice to taste (no sugar needed).

Directions:

1.  Core, peel and thinly slice the apples, then place them in a large pot.*
2.  Add 1 cup of water.
3.  Add your spices and mix well. (Add a little apple pie spice and a generous amount of cinnamon).
4.  Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5.  Let simmer for approximately 30 minutes or until the apples are soft enough to mash with a potato masher. If you like your applesauce chunky, use only the potato masher and mash until it is to a consistency of your liking. If you like a smoother consistency, use a handheld blender or food processor.
6.  Let cool completely, store in a covered dish in the refrigerator, and enjoy warm or cold.

*Bonus: Save some apple peels, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake for a tasty snack!

Serving Ideas:

Serve warm or cold for breakfast, over whole grain waffles, warmed over Greek yogurt, or enjoy as a dessert with vanilla ice cream.

Need help developing and maintaining healthy dietary habits? Overlake Nutrition Services offers nutrition counseling from registered nutritionists and dietitians. Contact Nutrition Services today to make an appointment.