Vegan Applesauce Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious

If you’re looking for a simple, wholesome, and delicious snack or dessert, this vegan applesauce recipe is an absolute must-try. Applesauce is naturally sweet, comforting, and incredibly versatile, making it a staple in many vegan and non-vegan kitchens alike.

Whether you’re enjoying it on its own, adding it to baked goods, or serving it alongside your favorite dishes, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Best of all, it uses just a few wholesome ingredients and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Making your own applesauce at home allows you to control the sweetness and texture, and it’s a great way to use up any apples that might be past their prime but still full of flavor. Plus, this recipe is free from any animal products, preservatives, or added sugars unless you want to add a touch of natural sweetener.

Let’s dive into making the perfect batch of vegan applesauce that’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with cozy apple goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan applesauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples.

No fancy gadgets or complicated steps are required, which means you can whip it up in under 30 minutes.

Second, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. You won’t find any additives or unnecessary preservatives here — just pure apple flavor enhanced with warm spices.

Lastly, the texture is customizable. Whether you like your applesauce chunky or silky smooth, this recipe can be adjusted to your preference, making it perfect for toddlers, adults, or even as a baking ingredient.

It’s a versatile, healthy, and delicious treat that you’ll want to keep on hand all year round.

Ingredients

• 6 medium apples (about 3 pounds, preferably a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup water (or apple cider for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps preserve color and adds brightness)
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Vegetable peeler (optional, for peeling apples)
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Food processor, blender, or potato masher (depending on desired texture)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Storage containers or jars for refrigerating

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Wash, peel (if preferred), core, and chop the apples into roughly 1-inch pieces. Peeling is optional – leaving the skins on adds nutrients and a rustic texture.
2. Cook the apples: Place the chopped apples in your saucepan along with the water (or apple cider), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are soft and tender.
3. Add spices and sweetener: Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and maple syrup. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level according to your preference.
4. Mash or blend: For chunky applesauce, gently mash the cooked apples with a potato masher or the back of a fork. For smooth applesauce, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until creamy.
5. Cool and store: Let the applesauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to clean jars or airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile. Tart apples like Granny Smith balance out the sweetness of Fuji or Gala apples beautifully.

If you prefer your applesauce thicker, reduce the cooking liquid or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground ginger for an exciting twist.

You can also experiment with other sweeteners such as agave syrup or coconut sugar if you want to keep it refined sugar-free. For a festive touch, stir in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped nuts after cooking.

If you’re interested in more wholesome vegan recipes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or try your hand at making your own Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Both pair wonderfully with a fresh spoonful of homemade applesauce!

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on apple variety and added sweeteners.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan applesauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it chilled as a refreshing snack or warm it gently and enjoy it as a cozy dessert.

It pairs wonderfully with vegan pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a nutritious breakfast. You can also use it as a natural sweetener in muffins, cakes, or breads — substituting some or all of the oil or sugar for a healthier twist.

Looking for savory ideas? Try it alongside roasted vegetables, vegan sausages, or as a topping for baked sweet potatoes.

For inspiration, explore our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for hearty dishes that balance sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

This vegan applesauce recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness and health benefits of apples in a simple, fuss-free format. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, a wholesome breakfast, or a baking ingredient, this recipe fits seamlessly into your daily routine.

It’s not only easy to make but also adaptable to your taste preferences – from chunky to smooth, spiced to plain, sweetened or unsweetened. Using fresh ingredients and natural sweeteners ensures you get the best flavor and nutrition without any artificial additives.

So next time you have a bunch of apples waiting in your kitchen, give this recipe a try. And while you’re here, don’t forget to explore other tasty vegan creations like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to keep your plant-based menu exciting and delicious!

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