Add them to a pan with the water and sugar, if using. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover with the lid and simmer for 10-15 minutes until very soft.
Mash or puree with an immersion blender (or regular blender).
Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg
Notes
When preparing the apples, make sure all the pieces are roughly the same size. This will ensure all of the apples cook and break down at the same time.
Let the apples cool slightly before blending as hot apple liquid can splash up and cause serious burns.
Sugar in this recipe is completely optional. Most apples have enough natural sweetness to make a great applesauce but you can sweeten to your liking.
Does homemade applesauce need lemon juice? Although lemon juice does help keep the apples from turning brown and oxidizing, it is not a necessary ingredient to make applesauce.
What is the best apple to use for applesauce? While you can use any apple or a mix of apples, granny smith apples are a great choice because they are sturdy and less sweet which means you can add less sugar to the mix.
How long does homemade applesauce last? When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade applesauce can last up to 10 days in the fridge.