Did you know that a small apple can yield delicious homemade applesauce with just 89 calories? Applesauce is a healthy and versatile food that can be used in baking or as a snack on its own.

Applesauce is low in calories, fat-free, and a good source of fiber and Vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.

In this article, we will explore the health benefits of applesauce, how to make homemade applesauce, and creative ways to use it in your meals.

Health Benefits of Applesauce

Applesauce is a great way to incorporate fruit into your diet. One cup of applesauce contains just 100 calories and provides 20% of your daily recommended value of Vitamin C. It also contains fiber that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. Applesauce also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants are linked to a decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Overall, incorporating applesauce into your diet can help you meet your daily fruit and fiber needs, and provide you with a variety of beneficial vitamins and antioxidants.

Easy Recipe for Homemade Applesauce

Making homemade applesauce is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Start by peeling and chopping 6 medium-sized apples and placing them in a large pot with 1/2 cup of water. Add cinnamon and sugar to taste and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and tender. Once the apples have softened, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency. You can also use a food mill or potato masher to mash the apples into a chunkier sauce. Homemade applesauce is a delicious and healthy snack that you can enjoy any time of day. It's also a great way to use up any extra apples you may have on hand.

How to Store Applesauce

Once you've made your own applesauce, you'll want to store it properly to keep it fresh. Applesauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you'd like to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months. When thawing frozen applesauce, it's best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also microwave it on a low setting, stirring occasionally, until it's fully thawed. Storing your applesauce properly will help maintain its flavor and texture, and ensure that you can enjoy it for longer.

Applesauce as a Substitute for Oil in Baking

Applesauce can be used as a healthy substitute for oil in your favorite baking recipes. It can add moisture and flavor to your baked goods while also reducing their overall calorie and fat content. To substitute applesauce for oil in a recipe, use a 1:1 ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1/2 cup of oil, you can use 1/2 cup of applesauce instead. When using applesauce in baking, keep in mind that it may change the texture and taste of your baked goods slightly. However, it's a great way to add extra nutrition to your favorite treats.

Best Apples for Applesauce

While you can make applesauce with any type of apple, certain varieties work better than others. Apples that are tart and firm work best, as they hold their shape and flavor when cooked. Some of the best apples to use for applesauce include Granny Smith, Jonathan, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn. These apples have a good balance of sweetness and tartness and hold up well when cooked. Experiment with different types of apples to find your favorite flavor and texture combination.

Difference Between Applesauce vs Apple Butter

While applesauce and apple butter are both made from apples, they are quite different in taste and texture. Applesauce is a puree of cooked apples that is usually sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon. It has a smooth, creamy texture and is often used as a snack or baking ingredient. On the other hand, apple butter is a spread made from cooked apples that are pureed and then cooked down with spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. It has a thicker, more spreadable texture than applesauce and a richer, spicier flavor. Both applesauce and apple butter are delicious and can be used in a variety of ways. However, they have distinct differences in taste and texture that make them unique.

Applesauce for Babies and Toddlers

Applesauce is a great first food for babies and toddlers because it's easy to digest and rich in vitamins and minerals. It's also a good source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. When introducing applesauce to your baby or toddler, start with a small amount and gradually increase the serving size as they get accustomed to the taste and texture. Avoid giving them applesauce that contains added sugar, as this can be harmful to their developing teeth and overall health. Overall, applesauce is a nutritious and delicious first food for babies and toddlers that can help promote healthy growth and development.

Making Applesauce in a Slow Cooker

Making applesauce in a slow cooker is a simple and hands-off way to cook this delicious snack. To make slow cooker applesauce, start by peeling and chopping 6-8 apples and placing them in a slow cooker with 1/2 cup of water. Add sugar and cinnamon to taste and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the apples are soft and tender. Once the apples are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture to your desired consistency. You can also use a food mill or potato masher to mash the apples into a chunkier sauce. Slow cooker applesauce is a great option if you want to make a large batch of applesauce with minimal effort. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it cooks!

Applesauce as a Dip or Topping

Applesauce is a versatile food that can be used in a variety of ways, including as a dip or topping for other foods. Try using applesauce as a dip for crackers, pretzels, or apple slices. You can also use it as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes. For a savory twist, mix applesauce with mustard or horseradish to create a unique dip for chicken or pork. You can also add applesauce to your favorite barbecue sauce recipe for a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor. Using applesauce as a dip or topping is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals without adding a lot of extra calories or fat.

How Applesauce Can Help with Digestion

Applesauce contains soluble fiber called pectin, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Pectin helps bulk up stools and makes them easier to pass through the intestines. Applesauce also contains sorbitol, which is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that can have a laxative effect on the body. Sorbitol can help relieve constipation and promote bowel movements. Overall, incorporating applesauce into your diet can help promote healthy digestion and prevent digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea.