Seriously The Best Apple Sauce Recipes You Can Find

Every fall, as soon as the air turns crisp and the leaves start to crunch underfoot, I know it’s time for our annual apple-picking adventure.

There’s something so magical about filling a basket with freshly picked apples, the kind that practically begs to be turned into something delicious.

My little one loves it too—running through the orchard, finding the perfect apple to bring home.

And once we’re back in the kitchen, that’s when the real fun begins.

Making applesauce has become our cozy fall tradition, filling the house with the sweet, comforting smell of simmering apples.

And it’s super easy to do!

Check out my absolutely best apple sauce recipe and some other favorites I know you’ll love.

The Best Homemade Applesauce Recipe

This applesauce recipe is as easy as it gets, perfect for those cozy fall days when you want something homemade but don’t have much time.

It’s just the right blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of cinnamon to make it extra comforting.

Plus, with only a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.

My kiddo loves helping out with this one—especially when it’s time to mash the apples.

Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (any variety you like)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Steps:

1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, combine the apples, water, and sugar.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the apples are soft and tender.
4. Stir in the cinnamon and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like a bit of tang.
5. For a chunky applesauce, use a fork or potato masher to mash the apples. For a smoother texture, blend the mixture with an immersion blender.
6. Let it cool before serving or storing in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy it warm or chilled!

How delicious does that sound?

Now check out these other mouth-watering apple sauce recipes:

Yummy Applesauce Recipes

With just a few simple tweaks, you can take a basic applesauce recipe and turn it into something truly special.

Whether it’s adding spices, mixing in other fruits, or even a splash of something unexpected, these variations bring a whole new flavor experience to the classic.

Each recipe offers a unique twist that keeps things fun and delicious in your fall kitchen!

8. Cinnamon Spice Applesauce

This one’s a favorite in our house, packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove. It’s like a bite of fall in every spoonful, perfect for topping pancakes or mixing into oatmeal.

I love how the spices transform simple apples into something so comforting. The best part? Your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks!

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

9. Maple-Infused Applesauce

Swap out the sugar for pure maple syrup, and you’ve got a subtly sweet applesauce with a rich, caramel-like flavor. It’s perfect for those crisp mornings when you want something special on your toast or mixed into yogurt.

The maple really enhances the natural sweetness of the apples. It’s a little taste of fall in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (any variety, though Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work well for natural sweetness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

10. Vanilla Bean Applesauce

Adding a vanilla bean or a splash of vanilla extract to your applesauce gives it a creamy, fragrant twist. It’s like apple pie filling but without the crust, making it perfect for dessert or just a cozy snack.

I love pairing this one with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. It’s simple but feels so indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (a mix of tart and sweet, like Granny Smith and Fuji)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

11. Apple-Pear Sauce

Mix in some ripe pears with your apples for a sauce that’s smooth, sweet, and a little extra special. The pears add a lovely, almost floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples.

It’s perfect for spooning over pancakes or waffles. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra pears sitting on the counter!

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (a mix of tart and sweet, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• 2 ripe pears (like Bartlett or Anjou)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

12. Cranberry Apple Sauce

For a tart twist, toss in a handful of fresh or dried cranberries while the apples cook. The cranberries add a gorgeous ruby color and a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness.

It’s a great side dish for holiday meals or just a fun way to change up your usual applesauce. I love making this one around Thanksgiving!

• 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (or 1/2 cup dried cranberries)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• A squeeze of orange juice (optional, for a citrusy twist)

13. Apple-Ginger Sauce

A little fresh ginger goes a long way in adding a zesty kick to your applesauce. It’s got that sweet-tart balance with a warm, spicy undertone that’s just perfect for cool fall days.

This one’s great for serving alongside pork chops or roasted chicken. The ginger adds a whole new layer of flavor that’s just irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Gala or Fuji for sweetness, or Granny Smith for tartness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tsp freshly grated ginger (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

14. Caramel Apple Sauce

Drizzle in some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce, and you’ve got an applesauce that tastes like a carnival treat! It’s sweet, buttery, and just a little decadent—perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.

The caramel adds a rich depth to the apples, making it hard to resist. My kiddo loves this one with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

• 6 large apples (such as Gala or Fuji for sweetness, or Granny Smith for tartness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tsp freshly grated ginger (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

15. Honey-Lavender Applesauce

A spoonful of honey and a pinch of dried lavender make for an applesauce that’s fragrant, floral, and utterly unique. It’s a little bit fancy but still super easy to make.

I like serving this one with tea biscuits or scones for a lovely afternoon treat. The lavender gives it a calming, aromatic quality that’s just so soothing.

• 6 large apples (such as Gala or Fuji for sweetness, or Granny Smith for tartness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tsp freshly grated ginger (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

16. Apple-Berry Sauce

Mix in some blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a vibrant, fruity applesauce that’s bursting with flavor. The berries add a lovely color and a hint of tartness that complements the apples perfectly.

This one’s great for topping ice cream, pancakes, or just enjoying by the spoonful. It’s a fun, fruity twist on the classic!

Here’s the recipe for Apple-Berry Sauce, a vibrant, fruity twist on classic applesauce:

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (like Fuji or Honeycrisp for sweetness, or Granny Smith for a tart twist)
• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries; fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

I like to serve this one warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of pound cake. It’s a cozy, comforting dessert that feels extra special.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (any variety, like Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1-2 tbsp spiced rum
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

18. Applesauce with Chai Spices

Take your applesauce to the next level by adding chai spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. It’s a cozy, aromatic twist that makes the applesauce taste like your favorite chai latte.

Perfect for fall mornings when you want something warm and comforting. I love having this one with a spoonful of yogurt or granola on top.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

This aromatic applesauce will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy chai latte!

19. Salted Caramel Applesauce

This is a more indulgent version of the classic caramel applesauce, with a pinch of sea salt to balance out the sweetness. The salt adds a savory note that makes the flavors pop, turning the applesauce into a decadent treat.

I like to keep a jar of this in the fridge for when I need a little something sweet. It’s amazing over vanilla ice cream or just on its own!

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

20. Brown Sugar & Butter Applesauce

Think of this one as a warm, cozy hug in a bowl. The brown sugar and butter give the applesauce a rich, caramelized flavor that’s so comforting.

It’s like having a slice of apple pie without all the work! This is the applesauce I make when I want to spoil my family with something special.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance flavor)

21. Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal Sauce

For a heartier twist, stir in some cooked oats into your applesauce. It’s like having breakfast in a jar, with the oats adding a lovely texture that makes it more filling.

This one’s perfect for a quick, healthy snack or breakfast on the go. The oats make it extra satisfying, and the cinnamon ties all the flavors together.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup cooked oats (old-fashioned or quick oats, prepared as per package instructions)
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)

22. Spiced Orange Applesauce

Add a splash of fresh orange juice and a bit of zest to your applesauce for a bright, citrusy twist. The orange adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced apples, making it perfect for winter mornings.

This one’s great for serving alongside roasted meats or just enjoying on its own. It’s a zesty, flavorful take on the classic!

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional, for extra spice)

23. Mango Applesauce

For a fresh twist on classic applesauce, try mango applesauce! Simply peel and chop ripe mangoes and apples, then simmer them together with a splash of water until soft.

Blend it all until smooth for a sweet, tropical treat your little ones will love.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)
• 2 ripe mangoes (peeled, pitted, and chopped)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, to balance the sweetness)

24. Pumpkin Spice Applesauce

Perfect for fall, pumpkin spice applesauce is a cozy treat your family will adore.

Just cook chopped apples with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of cloves until tender, then blend until smooth. It’s a warm, comforting snack that’s perfect for the cooler weather.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• A pinch of ground ginger (optional)

25. Peach Applesauce

For an applesauce version your kids will surely love, try peach applesauce! Simply cook peeled, chopped apples and peaches together until soft, then blend to a smooth consistency.

The natural sweetness of the peaches adds a delightful twist, making it a favorite snack for everyone.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)
• 2 ripe peaches (peeled, pitted, and chopped)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, to balance sweetness)

26. Raspberry Applesauce

This wonderful raspberry applesauce is a tangy, sweet treat your kids will enjoy.

Cook peeled, chopped apples with fresh or frozen raspberries until they’re tender and juicy. Then, blend the mixture until smooth. The vibrant color and burst of raspberry flavor make this applesauce an irresistible snack for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, to enhance the tanginess)

27. Kiwi Applesauce

When kiwis are in season, try making kiwi applesauce for a refreshing twist. Cook peeled, chopped apples until soft, then stir in diced kiwi and blend until smooth.

The kiwi adds a zesty, slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Fuji or Gala)
• 3 ripe kiwis (peeled and diced)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• A squeeze of lime juice (optional, to enhance the tanginess)

28. Berry Lemon Applesauce

Berry lemon applesauce is a vibrant and zesty treat that your family will love. Start by cooking peeled, chopped apples with a mix of your favorite berries until they’re soft.

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest, then blend until smooth. The bright flavors make this applesauce truly refreshing!

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries; fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

29. Sugar Free Applesauce

For a healthier treat, try making sugar-free applesauce that’s naturally sweet and delicious. Simply cook peeled, chopped apples with a splash of water until soft, then blend until smooth.

The natural sweetness of the apples shines through, making it a perfect snack for kids without any added sugar.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

A Sweet End to Apple Season

As you can see, a basic applesauce recipe is just the beginning.

With so many ways to mix things up, you’ll never get bored of this classic fall treat.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy snack or a festive holiday dish, these recipes will help you celebrate apple season in the most delicious way possible.

Happy cooking!

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