Try this unsweetened applesauce recipe for an easy stovetop treat. Fresh apples cook down into a naturally sweet applesauce with no added sugar.
Fall always puts me in the mood for apple recipes, and this unsweetened applesauce recipe is such an easy way to enjoy those cozy seasonal flavors.
You don't need freshly picked apples either, because I made mine with Gala apples straight from the grocery store, and they turned out delicious.
With just two ingredients and no added sugar, this homemade applesauce is perfect for lunches, afternoon snacks, or an easy side dish for the whole family.
Grab your favorite apples and an apple slicer if you have one handy, and let's make some homemade applesauce!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Homemade applesauce is simple, naturally sweet, and easy to customize with your favorite apples. I used Gala apples, but Fuji, Golden Delicious, or a combination of varieties work well too.
I leave the apple skins on for less prep and a little extra texture, but you can peel them for a smoother applesauce. Enjoy it warm or chilled for an easy snack or side dish.
Ingredients
See the recipe card below for measurements and instructions.
- Apples (any variety)
- Simply Apple Juice
Really! That's it!
The apples are the star here, so choose a variety you already enjoy eating. Sweeter varieties such as Gala, Fuji, or Golden Delicious are great choices for an unsweetened applesauce recipe because their natural sweetness becomes even more noticeable as they cook.
Apple juice adds extra liquid and apple flavor as the fresh apples soften. Since we're keeping this recipe free of added sugar, check the label and choose an apple juice with no added sugar if that's important to you.
Unsweetened Applesauce Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Apples any variety (I used Gala)
- ½ cup Apple Juice not from concentrate
Instructions
- Core the apples and cut them into wedges. Leave the peels on for added texture and fiber, or peel the apples if you prefer a smoother applesauce.
- Place the prepared apples in a medium saucepan and add the apple juice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the apples are very soft and mash easily with a fork.
- Remove from the heat and mash the apples with a potato masher until the applesauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve warm or let cool and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Store Homemade Applesauce
Let the applesauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the applesauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, leaving a little room at the top for expansion.
Thaw frozen applesauce overnight in the refrigerator, then stir well before serving.
Enjoy it cold, let it come to room temperature, or warm it gently before eating.
Tips for the Best Homemade Applesauce
The apple variety you choose can change both the taste and texture of your applesauce. Sweet apples will give you a naturally sweeter result, while tart varieties will make the finished sauce a bit tangier. Mixing apple varieties is another easy way to add more depth of flavor.
Your preferred texture is completely up to you. A potato masher works well when you like some texture and small pieces of cooked apples in your sauce. For smoother applesauce, an immersion blender can help create a more even consistency.
If you leave the apple skins on as I do, the finished sauce will have more texture than applesauce made with peeled apples. You can always peel them first if your family prefers a smoother texture.
This recipe is delicious all on its own, but you can easily change the flavor after cooking. A sprinkle of cinnamon gives it that cozy apple pie flavor without turning a simple side dish into dessert.
Enjoy your homemade applesauce warm or cold, but in my opinion, it is best served warm!
Frequently Asked Questions
Gala apples work wonderfully, and I used them for this recipe. Fuji and Golden Delicious are also naturally sweet choices. You can use one variety or combine different apples to adjust the sweetness and flavor.
No. I leave the apple skins on, which saves prep time and gives the applesauce a little extra texture. If you don't care for the texture of the skins, peel the apples before cooking.
This recipe adds no granulated or brown sugar. The sweetness comes from the apples and apple juice, so choose juice labeled with no added sugar if you want to keep the entire recipe free from added sugars.
A potato masher gives you a more rustic texture. For smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender after the apples have cooked and softened.
Absolutely. Cinnamon isn't necessary, but it's an easy addition if you want a warmer fall flavor. Add it to taste.
Either works! I personally think it tastes best warm, especially during the fall, but you can chill it before serving if that's how you prefer your applesauce.
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More Side Dish Recipes
Here are a few more easy recipes to serve alongside your family's favorite meals.
Hi, I'm Katie!
I'm so glad you're here. Want to make something fabulous? I'm here to help!
Giselle
It was funny to see your post pop up on my email when I was just setting up to peel and core all the apples I had picked up to make some homemade applesauce. However, since I didn't have a complete recipe to follow, I was just planning on winging it with the cinnamon and sugar. I'm thrilled to now know that I can go without the sugar by adding the apple juice instead!! Thank you so much for the helpful post and I look forward to trying a few of the other apple recipes as well!!
Katie
Yes, I love the fact you can use apple juice instead of sugar. I hope your apple sauce turned out delicious! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Emily Smith @ The Best of this Life
I love making homemade apple sauce!
Katie
I agree, Emily! So easy, yet very comforting <3 So glad you stopped by 🙂
Randi - Dukes and Duchesses
I just love homemade applesauce ... it's so perfect for fall. Can't wait to try this recipe!
Katie
Me too, Randi! It is a great way to start fall 🙂
Bonnie @ Uncommon Designs
Oh...I love applesauce!! This looks absolutely delish!
Katie
Thanks, Bonnie! Warm homemade applesauce is a fall favorite <3 Thank you for stopping by!
Wendy
My gosh I bet your home smells AMAZING after you make this! YUM!
Katie
Yes, when apples are cooking the aroma is unforgettable! Thank you for stopping by 🙂
Taryn @ Design, Dining + Diapers
Homemade Applesauce is one of my favorites! Looks delicious!
Katie
Thanks, Taryn <3 It is one of our family favorites!
Megan
This sounds super yummy! Perfect for this time of year!
Katie
Thanks, Megan! A simply homemade applesauce is so comforting during this season 🙂