Checking the ingredients of store-bought applesauce, I see a common use of “high fructose corn syrup.” Avoid Fructose: How to Make Applesauce at Home is a simple recipe
Basically, it’s a sweetener derived from corn starch. It is commonly used in processed foods and beverages as an alternative to sugar because it is less expensive and has a longer shelf life. You may see it listed as HFCS. The American Heart Association recommends that women consume no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) and men no more than 9 teaspoons (38 grams) of added sugar per day. Six to nine teaspoons of applesauce just won’t make it for me. For more information on the dangers of “high fructose corn syrup”, click here
Here’s a recipe for applesauce that you can make either in a slow cooker or on the stove top:
Enjoy your homemade applesauce!
Applesauce at Home
Equipment
- Immersion blender or potato masher
- Large Pot
- Slow Cooker optional
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized apples choose a variety that’s good for cooking, such as Granny Smith or Jonathan
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar optional
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
Instructions
For Slow Cooker
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
- Place the chopped apples, water, sugar (if using), and cinnamon (if using) into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the apples are soft and can be easily mashed, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the apples into a smooth consistency.
- Taste the applesauce and add more sugar or cinnamon if desired.
- Serve warm or chilled.
For Stove Top
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
- Place the chopped apples, water, sugar (if using), and cinnamon (if using) into a large pot over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the apples are soft and can be easily mashed, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the apples into a smooth consistency.
- Taste the applesauce and add more sugar or cinnamon if desired.
- Serve warm or chilled.
