It’s the hap-happiest season of all! That crazy song had it all wrong…parties for hosting, marshmallows for roasting and caroling out in the snow? No thank you. I’ll take pumpkin carving, cider sipping, leaf jumping, corn mazing any day of the week, hands down. And one of our absolute favorite traditions to do each year around this time is apple picking. Load up the kiddos, pack up a picnic lunch (that we never get to because our bellies are too full from “testing” apples) and head to one of the local picking orchards. It is, without a doubt, an awesome way to celebrate the season.
And I’m really not sure what we anticipate more…the actual trip to the orchard or all of the goodies that come out of the kitchen with the apples we bring home. This applesauce is such a treat…it’s smooth and sweet…store bought can not even compare. And the best part? No sugar. No fillers. Just the goods. It freezes wonderfully, too, so you can enjoy it all year around, even if it’s not the most wonderful time of the year 😉
Homemade Applesauce
Inspired by this recipe
Ingredients
3.5-4 Pounds Apples, peeled, cored and quartered
Juice From One Orange, about 1/4 cup
3 Strips Lemon Peel
1 1/2 Teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
1/4 Teaspoon Salt
Pinch of Ground Allspice
1 Cup Water
Directions
Place all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling give it a good stir, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until apples are completely softened, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool for 20-30 minutes, remove lemon peel and puree in a food processor until smooth. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months. Makes 1 1/2 quarts.
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