If you’ve only ever had processed applesauce from a jar, you’re in for a real treat! Homemade applesauce is so much better, with a luscious, rich apple-y flavor – especially when you use Pennsylvania apples to make it. Any apple varieties will do, but we suggest saving super crisp, crunchy apples for snacking and using up softer types, like McIntosh, Golden Delicious and Fuji, for the sauce.
No need to break out the slow cooker for this recipe: In just 30 minutes you’ll have a tasty, versatile batch of applesauce ready to go! If you like a chunkier sauce (perhaps as a condiment for latkes, pierogis or pork chops), give the apples only a light mash once they’re done cooking. For a smoother sauce, mash a bit more, perhaps adding another splash of water or apple juice while you do. Enjoy the flavors of fall with this simple DIY Pennsylvania applesauce recipe!
Pennsylvania Applesauce
| Yield |
|---|
| Makes about 2 cups |
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 min | 20 min | 30 min |
Ingredients
- 4 or 5 Pennsylvania apples, any variety
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon PA maple syrup
Method
- Core, cut and peel the apples. You can use a corer and peeler to do this, or just a paring knife.
- Place the cut apples into a large pan or Dutch oven. Add 1/2 cup of water, cinnamon and maple syrup. Stir to combine.
- Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Lower heat and cook for about 15 minutes. When the apples have softened, remove from heat and allow to slightly cool.
- Mash the apples with a fork or potato masher to turn them into applesauce.
- Recipe and photo: Dish Works
