Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs (900g) mixed apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala, Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml) maple syrup, to taste (or brown sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves (optional, but adds warmth)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into roughly equal-sized pieces.
  2. Add the chopped apples, water, lemon juice, maple syrup (start with 2 tablespoons), cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using) to the saucepan.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are very soft and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove from heat. Mash the apples with a potato masher for a chunky sauce, or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
  5. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and fully incorporated.
  6. Taste the apple sauce and add more maple syrup if desired. Adjust spices to your liking.
  7. Allow the apple sauce to cool slightly before serving.