Homemade Pumpkin Spice Apple Sauce 🍎✨
I wanted to share how I make my cozy fall-inspired pumpkin spice apple sauce, perfect for my little one (and me too!). It’s simple, quick, and doesn’t require peeling apples (because I hate that part 😂).
Ingredients I used:
• 3 whole apples (skin left on for extra health benefits, remove the core)
• ½ tbsp pumpkin spice
• ½ tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp brown sugar (I skip this most of the time since my son doesn’t need the extra sweets)
How I make it:
1. Cut the apples into small chunks.
2. Place them in a pan/pot with the pumpkin spice, cinnamon, 1/2 cup of water and vanilla.
3. Cook on medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, until the apples soften.
4. Let them cool slightly, then blend. (I still use my baby blender even though my son is two and eats like a grown man 🤣. It doubles as a smoothie and applesauce maker for us!)
5. Store in any container you like, I use a large overnight oats jar.
This batch usually lasts us about a week, though my son loves it so much sometimes it’s gone faster. It’s sweet, warm, and the pumpkin spice gives it the perfect fall touch 🍂.
Hope this recipe is helpful if you’re looking for an easy, cozy snack, especially if you hate peeling apples as much as I do!
Creating your own homemade pumpkin spice applesauce is such a rewarding experience, and honestly, it's become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the fall. While the original recipe is fantastic for its simplicity and the genius idea of skipping the peeling, I've picked up a few extra tips and tricks that might make your applesauce journey even more delightful and versatile! First off, let's talk about apples! The original recipe uses whole apples, which is great for convenience. I often use whatever I have on hand, but for that perfect balance of sweet and tart, something like ‘Gran Gran Apples’ (Granny Smith) mixed with a sweeter variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp can elevate your applesauce. The tartness of Granny Smith really brightens up the rich flavors of cinnamon and pumpkin spice, giving it a more complex taste. If you're using very sweet apples, you might find you don't need any added brown sugar at all, which is a win for healthy eating! Beyond apples, don't hesitate to get creative with your spices. While cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract are a beautiful base, a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add another layer of warmth. I sometimes even throw in a star anise during the cooking process for an extra aromatic kick, removing it before blending. For a citrusy brightness, a squeeze of fresh orange juice or a strip of orange zest can be a game-changer. These small additions can really transform your basic pumpkin spice applesauce into something gourmet. Now, how to enjoy this delicious homemade goodness? It’s not just for eating by the spoonful! Of course, it's a fantastic snack, but I love incorporating it into other meals. Think about swirling it into your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a comforting breakfast. My son loves it spread on toast or mixed into his pancake batter for extra moisture and flavor. It also makes a surprisingly good accompaniment to savory dishes, especially pork chops or roasted chicken, where its sweetness can cut through the richness. I've even used it as a natural sweetener in muffins or quick bread recipes, reducing the need for refined sugar. For storage, the overnight oats jar is brilliant for daily use, but what if you make a big batch? I often double or triple the recipe and freeze portions. Just let the pumpkin spice applesauce cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or even ice cube trays for smaller, single servings. This way, you always have a healthy, homemade treat ready to go, and it lasts for months! Thaw it in the fridge overnight or gently warm it on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy. And a quick troubleshooting tip: if your applesauce turns out a little too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce some of the liquid. If it's too thick, simply add a splash of water or apple juice until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about personal preference, so don't be afraid to adjust until it's perfect for you and your family. Happy cooking!
