How to Make Applesauce From Whole Apples

5 from 1 vote

An easy, homemade chunky applesauce made from delicious whole apples!

Prep Time15

Cook Time30

Total Time45

Course: Breakfast, Cakes, Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 263kcal

Author: Paige

Wash, peel and chop the apples into 1" pieces.
To a heavy, deep skillet or dutch oven, add the butter and let it melt. Add the chopped apples and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine and then let the mixture cook on medium heat until you can hear them sizzle and pop.
Add the brown sugar, apple cider (or juice) the water, the cinnamon and the nutmeg if using. Stir to combine.
Let the mixture simmer on medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Roughly mash with a potato masher to break down some of the large chunks. You want a chunky mash.
Add another half cup of water if the liquid has evaporated out. Taste and decide if you want it sweeter, if so, add another tablespoon or two of brown sugar. Continue to simmer another 10 minutes or so until most of the liquid has absorbed and the apples are completely tender.
Remove from the heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir to combine. Makes about 4 cups.

Golden delicious apples are the best for this recipe, they fall apart a bit with cooking which is the consistency you want.
If your apples are on the sweet side, use a quarter cup less brown sugar.
You can use all water instead of apple cider or juice in this recipe.
Use maple syrup instead of some of the brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar if you'd like.