by Vickie Gross

Created on: July 24, 2011   Last Updated: September 06, 2011

When life gives you apples, it is time to learn how to make applesauce. Johnny Appleseed was a man who apparently lived his life to share with us the knowledge, value, and produce of this singularly focused fruit. Applesauce is a comfort food that use to be considered a common type of mush. Today, over one hundred years later, applesauce is considered to be one of the healthiest desserts to still be served during school lunch. Not only is it nutritious and delicious, it is also very simple to make at home.

Learning how to turn an apple or apples into delicious applesauce is as simple as adding an apple or two to some simmering water. Allow the apple(s) to simmer until thoroughly softened. Basic applesauce is literally that simple. No sugar or other additives are necessary for this wholesomely nutritious dessert. Even grip-rolling an apple over a hard surface or from hand to hand can soften an apple to provide an applesauce result.

A crock-pot is a wonderful appliance for simmering apples throughout the day. Add a layer or two of whole apples and enough water to cover the apples. When the apples are completely softened, gently slice the apple or apples through the center and add a little margarine or butter to top off the hot applesauce for a sweet, rich and creamy, flavor. The peel will help to keep the applesauce in place while leaving the apple core and seeds in a semi-firm condition.

Whole apples that have been simmered to create applesauce can be placed in the refrigerator for future servings. The apple stays juicy and the flavor sweet while encapsulated in its peel. When baking precooked or fresh apples, be sure to add a fourth to a half cup of water and tightly cover the apples so they do not dry out.

When making applesauce in pure mush form, peel and core the apples before simmering. Slicing the apples into sections before simmering will result in a complete applesauce mush. Thinly sliced apples will cook more quickly and require less water to keep them hydrated. Should the apples produce too much liquid, pour off the excess fluid and continue to simmer, cook, or bake uncovered until the desired consistency is achieved. Stir occasionally to check for consistency.

To add enhanced flavoring to applesauce, adding a touch  of cinnamon  can produce a wonderful  flavor as well as cooking aroma. During the holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, simmering whole apples in a pot of water with a tsp of cinnamon and cloves not only provides wonderful aromas indoors but also provides necessary humidity when the air is dry.

A fresh apple is a healthy snack. Applesauce is a healthy and delicious dessert. Cinnamon applesauce is in a league of its own and draws us to thoughts of Christmas, home, and the foresight of Johnny Appleseeds' continuing gift to the nutritional welfare of Americans.

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