Check the ingredients in store-bought applesauce. You’ll likely find something concerning: high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Brands use it to make applesauce sweeter and extend shelf life. But what does it do to your health? Instead of eating these additives, make applesauce at home using simple ingredients.
Why High Fructose Corn Syrup is Harmful
Fructose, found in HFCS, is a processed sweetener from corn starch. The body processes glucose for energy, but the liver handles fructose. This causes problems.
Instead of fueling the body, fructose turns into fat. Over time, too much fructose can lead to obesity, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Some experts believe our bodies weren’t meant to handle high fructose levels, especially in processed forms.
The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests women limit sugar to six teaspoons (25 grams) per day and men to nine teaspoons (38 grams). Just a few spoonfuls of store-bought applesauce can push you past that limit, especially when combined with other processed foods.
For more on HFCS read this: High Fructose Corn Syrup: Sweetening Our Foods at What Cost?
Other Unwanted Ingredients in Store-Bought Applesauce
Besides HFCS, many applesauce brands contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and color additives. Some include stabilizers and emulsifiers that increase shelf life but add no health benefits. Even “natural” or “no sugar added” applesauce often has concentrated fruit juices, adding even more sugar.
The Benefits of Choosing to Make Applesauce at Home
Making applesauce at home is easy and rewarding. When you make applesauce yourself, you control what goes in—just apples, water, and optional spices like cinnamon or vanilla. Here’s why homemade applesauce is better:
- No added sugar – Apples are naturally sweet. Cooking enhances their flavor.
- No preservatives or artificial ingredients – You know exactly what’s in it.
- Customizable – Adjust sweetness, texture, and spices to your taste.
- Budget-friendly – Homemade costs less than store-bought.
- Healthier – Avoiding HFCS and additives reduces health risks.
How to Make Applesauce at Home
You don’t need special tools—just a pot or a slow cooker. Try different apple types for unique flavors. Some like tart and sweet mixes, while others prefer smooth or chunky textures.
For a simple recipe, check the one below. Once you make applesauce yourself, you may never buy it again!
Ditch artificial ingredients and enjoy applesauce the way it was meant to be—pure, fresh, and naturally delicious.
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.
Notes
https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/high-fructose-corn-syrup-questions-and-answers
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-with-high-fructose-corn-syrup