Let me paint you a picture of my pantry shelves lined with glowing jars of homemade canned applesauce. As someone who loves to bake and cook, having a stockpile of this golden goodness on hand has been a game-changer in my kitchen. Not only does it bring a taste of autumn to my recipes year-round, but it also serves as a versatile ingredient that can substitute for a variety of baking staples!

Imagine the possibilities: a dollop of sweet applesauce replacing oil in a muffin recipe, or adding moisture and natural sweetness to a batch of brownies. Not only does this sustainable practice reduce food waste by utilizing seasonal produce, but it also allows for a more mindful approach to cooking and baking. Plus, it is shelf-stable as an alternative to perishable eggs and butter (although, there are ways of making those shelf-stable too!)

Follow along as we stock our pantries together with versatile ingredients, where canned applesauce takes center stage as a secret weapon for delicious and sustainable recipes. Let’s explore the endless possibilities that come from a simple jar of homemade goodness and embrace the joy of cooking with purpose and creativity. Cheers to stocking up on homemade canned applesauce and empowering our culinary adventures with a touch of wholesome magic!

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Canning Applesauce Recipe Tutorial

Image illustrates canning applesauce recipes. — I quadrupled my recipe to make 18 quarts for my stockpile in my pantry. (I bake a lot and my family loves this stuff!)

So, you’ve got a bunch of apples and a yearning for some DIY kitchen adventures. Canning applesauce might just be your new jam! Literally, because you can spread it on toast! Let’s get busy turning fresh apples into delicious pantry staples.

Why Canning Applesauce is a Great Skill to Learn

Sure, you could buy applesauce at the store, but where’s the fun in that? Canning your own applesauce gives you control over the ingredients, lets you customize flavors, and makes you an all-around kitchen wizard. Plus, you’ll impress your friends with your homemade goodness!

Benefits of Homemade Applesauce

If you’ve only had store-bought applesauce, get ready to have your taste buds dazzled by the homemade version. But it’s not just about flavor – homemade applesauce packs a punch when it comes to nutrition too.

Nutritional Advantages of Homemade vs Store-Bought

Homemade applesauce is often lower in sugar and can retain more of those apple-y nutrients since you’re in charge of what goes into it. Say goodbye to mystery ingredients and hello to a healthier, tastier snack option!

Essential Tools and Ingredients for Canning

Before you start your applesauce adventure, it’s essential to gear up with the right equipment and, of course, the star of the show – apples!

Must-Have Equipment for Canning Applesauce

Think large pots, jars, tongs, and your canning kit. You might even want to grab your warm spices from the racks!

Choosing the Best Apples for Canning

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to sauciness. Look for varieties that hold up well when cooked down. It’s all about that perfect balance of tart and sweet in your final product.

When it comes to canning homemade applesauce, here are some of the best apple varieties to use:

McIntosh: Known for its sweet and tangy flavor, McIntosh apples break down easily when cooked, making them ideal for creating a smooth applesauce texture.
Gala: Gala apples are sweet and aromatic, adding a pleasant fragrance and taste to your applesauce.
Jonathan: These slightly tart apples hold their shape well when cooked, providing a nice balance of texture in the applesauce.
Golden Delicious: With their honeyed sweetness, Golden Delicious apples are great for creating a naturally sweetened applesauce without the need for added sugar.
Cortland: Cortland apples are juicy and slightly tart, making them a good choice for adding a refreshing zing to your applesauce.
Gravenstein: These heirloom apples have a perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, ideal for creating a well-balanced and flavorful homemade applesauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Applesauce

Ready to get your hands (and kitchen) a little messy? Let’s walk through the apple-to-jar journey step by step.

First, here’s what you will need:

Fresh Apples: The star of the show that makes up the recipe!

Water: Just enough to help the apples cook down.

Lemon Juice: To add a hint of brightness, balance the sweetness of the apples, and prevent oxidation, keeping the applesauce fresh and vibrant in color.

Sugar: To enhance the sweetness of the apples, balance the natural tartness, and contribute to the overall flavor profile of the sauce.

Cinnamon: To add warmth, depth of flavor, and a hint of spice that complements the sweetness of the apples, creating a comforting and aromatic sauce.

Preparing the Apples

Peel, core, and slice those apples like a pro. Bonus points if you can do it in one swift motion! Channel your inner fruit ninja! Or just grab your knife and cutting board and put on some good music!

Cooking and Mashing the Apples

Simmer those apple slices until they’re soft and mashable. Break out your potato masher or immersion blender and give those apples a good squish.

PRO TIP: Taste testing is highly encouraged at this stage!

Filling and Sealing Jars

It is now time to fill your jars with your secret homemade awesomesauce, er um, I mean applesauce!

Prepare the Jars: Wash the jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly to ensure they are clean.
Fill the Jars: Using a canning funnel, ladle the hot applesauce into the jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
Remove Air Bubbles: Slide a non-metallic spatula or chopstick around the inside of the jar to remove any air bubbles trapped in the applesauce.
Wipe the Jar Rim: Using a clean, damp cloth, wipe the rim of the jar to ensure it is clean and free of any applesauce residue.
Apply the Lid and Ring: Place a lid on top of the jar, then screw on the band until fingertip tight. Do not over-tighten.
Process the Jars: Place the filled and sealed jars in a boiling water canner, ensuring they are fully submerged with water covering the jars by at least 1-2 inches.
Bring to a Boil: Cover the canner with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Process the jars according to the recommended processing time for your altitude and jar size.
Remove and Cool: Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
Check the Seal: After cooling, check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. If the lid is firm and does not flex, the jar is sealed.
Label and Store: Label the sealed jars with the date and contents, then store them in a cool, dark place for long-term storage. Enjoy your delicious homemade applesauce whenever you like!

Flavor Variations and Additions

Adding Spices for a Flavor Boost

Spice up your canned applesauce by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cloves for a warm and aromatic twist. Experiment with different spice combinations to create your signature applesauce flavor.

Experimenting with Different Sweeteners

Aside from traditional white sugar, try sweetening your applesauce with brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a unique taste profile. You can also opt for healthier alternatives like stevia or agave nectar to satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free.

Storing and Preserving Canned Applesauce

Proper Storage Techniques for Long-Term Preservation

To ensure your canned applesauce stays fresh, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Properly sealed jars can last up to a year or more, but always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

Creative Ways to Use Canned Applesauce

Using Applesauce in Baking Recipes

Substitute applesauce for oil or butter in your baking recipes to reduce fat content while adding moisture and flavor. It works particularly well in muffins, cakes, and cookies, yielding deliciously soft and moist results.

How to Use Applesauce As Substitutes In Your Baking Recipes!

Using applesauce as a substitute in baking recipes can not only add moisture and natural sweetness to your baked goods, but also reduce the amount of fat in the recipe. Here’s how you can use applesauce as a substitute in baking:

Replace Oil or Butter: Substitute applesauce for oil or melted butter at a 1:1 ratio. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of oil, you can use 1 cup of applesauce instead.
Reduce Sugar: Applesauce adds natural sweetness to baked goods, allowing you to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. For every cup of sugar, you can typically replace it with ½ to ¾ cup of applesauce. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture and sweetness of the final product.
Add Moisture: When using applesauce as a substitute, be aware that it adds moisture to the recipe. You may need to slightly reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe to compensate for this extra moisture.
Consider Flavor: Applesauce has a mild, apple flavor that can complement many baked goods. It works well in recipes like muffins, cakes, and quick breads where the apple flavor can enhance the overall taste.
Adjust Baking Time: When using applesauce as a substitute, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on your baked goods and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Experiment: Baking is both a science and an art, so don’t be afraid to experiment with using applesauce in your favorite recipes. Start by replacing a portion of the fat with applesauce and see how it affects the texture and taste of the final product.

By using these tips, you can easily incorporate applesauce into your baking recipes to create healthier and more flavorful treats. Enjoy the benefits of this versatile ingredient in your baking adventures!

Incorporating Applesauce into Savory Dishes

Get adventurous with your applesauce by using it as a glaze for roasted meats, a marinade base for chicken, or a topping for grilled vegetables. Applesauce has natural sweetness and tanginess that can elevate savory dishes to a whole new level.

Tips for Successful Canning

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Canning Applesauce

Avoid overfilling jars, not allowing enough headspace, or skipping the hot water bath canning process. Remember, canning is a science, so follow recipes and guidelines carefully to ensure safe and tasty results.

As you set out on your canning adventure and fill your pantry with jars of homemade applesauce, you are not just preserving a seasonal fruit, but also creating a versatile ingredient that can elevate your dishes throughout the year.

With proper storage techniques and a bit of creativity, your canned applesauce will be ready to enhance your baking, cooking, and snacking experiences. So go ahead, stock up on apples, gather your canning supplies, and enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor the taste of your homemade applesauce creations!

Conclusion

I hope you are inspired to bring the taste of homemade goodness into your pantry. Preserving the harvest through simple and sustainable methods not only allows you to enjoy the flavors of fresh apples year-round, but also brings a sense of accomplishment and connection to your food.

Whether you’re a seasoned canner or new to the art of preserving, making applesauce at home is a rewarding experience that can be shared with loved ones and enjoyed in countless recipes. So take a leap into the world of canning, stock your pantry with jars of sweet and spiced applesauce, and savor the taste of your efforts with each delicious spoonful.

May your pantry be filled with the warmth and comfort of homemade applesauce, reminding you of the beauty of seasonal harvests and the joy of creating something wholesome and nourishing with your own hands. Here’s to embracing the simple pleasures of canning and preserving, one jar of applesauce at a time. Happy canning!

Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use any type of apple for making applesauce?

While you can use various apple varieties, some popular choices for applesauce include McIntosh, Gala, and Golden Delicious. Experiment with different types to find the flavor and texture you prefer.

2. Do I need any special equipment for canning applesauce?

Basic canning equipment such as jars, lids, a canning funnel, a large pot for boiling water, and a jar lifter are recommended for safe and successful canning. These tools can help streamline the process and ensure proper preservation.

3. How long can I store canned applesauce?

Properly canned and sealed applesauce can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Be sure to check the seals before consuming to ensure they are airtight and safe for consumption.

4. Can I add spices or sweeteners to my homemade applesauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your applesauce with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for added flavor. You can also sweeten it with honey, maple syrup, or sugar to suit your taste preferences. Just be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly to maintain proper canning guidelines.

Applesauce Recipe

Learn how to make easy homemade applesauce with this delightful recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh apples with a hint of comforting spices. Create a deliciously smooth and aromatic applesauce that will fill your kitchen with the cozy scents of fall. Perfect for enjoying on its own, pairing with dishes, or adding to your favorite baked goods for a touch of wholesome flavor! Having homemade canned applesauce on your pantry shelf helps you be prepared for any baked recipe as applesauce is a substitute for a lot of different ingredients!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 40

Processing Time 20

Total Time 1 40

Servings 8 pints

Equipment

1 stockpot.
1 water bath canner
8 pint jars, lids, and rings.
canning supplies

Ingredients

12 lbs fresh apples, peeled, quartered, and sitting in lemon juice to prevent browning (drain before using).
½ cup water.
3 cups sugar.
4 tbsp lemon juice.
2 tsp cinnamon.

Instructions

Preparing the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples.

Cooking and Mashing the Apples

Simmer those apple slices until they're soft and mashable.

Filling and Sealing Jars

Prepare the Jars: Wash the jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water.
Rinse thoroughly to ensure they are clean.
Fill the Jars: Using a canning funnel, ladle the hot applesauce into the jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
Remove Air Bubbles: Slide a non-metallic spatula or chopstick around the inside of the jar to remove any air bubbles trapped in the applesauce.
Wipe the Jar Rim: Using a clean, damp cloth, wipe the rim of the jar to ensure it is clean and free of any applesauce residue.
Apply the Lid and Ring: Place a lid on top of the jar, then screw on the band until fingertip tight. Do not over-tighten.
Process the Jars: Place the filled and sealed jars in a boiling water canner, ensuring they are fully submerged with water covering the jars by at least 1-2 inches.
Bring to a Boil: Cover the canner with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Process the jars according to the recommended processing time for your altitude and jar size.
Remove and Cool: Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
Check the Seal: After cooling, check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. If the lid is firm and does not flex, the jar is sealed.
Label and Store: Label the sealed jars with the date and contents, then store them in a cool, dark place for long-term storage.
Enjoy your delicious homemade applesauce whenever you like!