Did you know you can make applesauce without using the stove, oven or slow cooker?!? I didn’t. But after hearing about the process—how freezing followed by thawing the apples will make them mushy—it seemed too good to be true.
Why not give it a try, though? With apple season upon us, I thought it might be interesting.
I cored and chopped two apples and placed them into a freezer baggie.
I added:
- 1 T. lemon juice
- 1 t. cinnamon
- 1/4 t. nutmeg
That’s right. No added sweeteners. Trust me–you don’t need any for this!
I shook the bag to evenly distribute the seasonings, and placed the sealed baggie in the freezer.
The next morning, I moved the baggie from the freezer to a plate on my countertop to thaw. About 3 hours later, I moved the apples from the baggie to a bowl, and used my fingers to easily remove the peel.
At this point, you can use a blender or food processor to make a smooth applesauce. Or use a potato masher to make a homestyle, chunky applesauce.
I chose homestyle! It’s a bit of an arm workout since it takes a few minutes to mash everything well. The end result, however, was outstanding. It’s better than any packaged applesauce. Ever.
I am storing my applesauce in the refrigerator, and I’m guessing it will keep for about a week. I’m guessing it will be consumed before then though.
Talk about a delicious pancake-topper. Or eat it with a sprinkle of granola on top. Wait—stir it into oatmeal! I’m sure there are a million great ideas . . . .
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Looks delicious! I love apples! I have to try this soon.
Wow, really really good idea! When I go apple picking this fall I’m sure this will become a major use for me!
I’ve never been apple picking–but really, really want to!!! I should make that a priority for this fall.
This sounds like a great idea! Less steps to make delicious applesauce sounds good to me!
Exactly. It was so easy, and surprisingly VERY delicious!
this is such a fabulous idea!! cannot wait to try!!! who knew the peels of the apples would come off after they thawed. really neat!
I know! It was pretty cool–and so easy!
oooh the six year old and I would have SUCH FUN WITH THIS!!!
I never knew this! Genius!!! Thanks for sharing girl
How easy is that?! What brand apples did you use? More of a sweet or tart? I am so going to try this and I am thinking today may be the perfect time!!
I actually used 1 pink lady, and 1 gala . . . just because they needed to be used. The applesauce turned out to be sweet!
I grew up in a family that made its own applesauce. My favorite applesauce combo it hot oatmeal with cold applesauce on top.
That sounds awesome–I love hot/cold combos!
There is no better way to eat applesauce. My grandma always taught me to make it myself. She uses a couple different apples, and her always turn out with a tart taste! I love it!
Why have I never heard of this method? Guess what my kids are taking in their lunch next week? I’m ready for the fresh apples to hit the stores – never thought I’d say this, but I’m getting tired of melons and am ready for the fall crops.
I agree! Bring on the apples and winter squash!
What a great way to use apples!
Thanks for the idea! I’ve done this with tomatoes, frozen whole tomatoes and then thawed them by running them under warm/hot water and the skins peel right of. Never thought to try it with apples though.
And I didn’t realize you could do this with tomatoes!! Thanks!