Easy Homemade Applesauce

I like to use Gala apples for this recipe. Naturally sweet and juicy, they require little, if
any, sugar to make an applesauce the whole family will enjoy.

This is a great recipe to make with kids. So, load the family in the car, take a drive to a
local apple orchard, pick a variety of apples suiTABLE for cooking, and create your own
special blend!

8-10 Gala apples (or other apples suiTABLE for cooking), cored, peeled and cut into quarters
1 cinnamon stick (approx. 3 inches) or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar (more or less depending on the sweetness of the apples)
1/2 cup water
juice of one lemon
dash of salt

Place all ingredients in a heavy saucepot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a low
simmer and cover. Cook approximately 20 minutes or until the apples are soft.

Take off of heat and remove the cinnamon stick. For chunky applesauce, mash with a
potato masher. If you prefer a smoother applesauce, let cool and pulse in a food
processor until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can be served warm or chilled.

Notes:
The finished applesauce freezes well and can be kept frozen in a covered plastic
container or freezer bag for several months.

This recipe can also be made in a crock pot. Place all ingredients in the crock
pot, cover and cook on low 8-10 hours or on high 3-4 hours.