Applesauce for the Freezer

Recipe View 5 mins In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the apples, water, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, lemon zest, and salt. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, maintaining a gentle simmer. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Cook until the apples are very soft and easily pierced with a fork, about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. (30 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully remove and discard the cinnamon stick and lemon zest strips. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins For chunky applesauce: Mash the apples directly in the pot with a potato masher to your desired consistency. For smooth applesauce: Transfer the cooked apples to a food mill and process until smooth. (5-10 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed, adding more sugar or lemon juice to your preference. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Allow the applesauce to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or chilled. (30 minutes)

Recipe View For freezing: Allow the applesauce to cool completely. Ladle into freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1/2-inch headspace. Seal tightly, label with the date, and freeze for up to one year.