Homemade Applesauce

Homemade applesauce, when used as a cooking liquid, is a versatile, naturally sweet base made by simmering apples with water or cider until soft, often spiced with cinnamon or nutmeg. It's a staple in many Western kitchens, particularly in North American and European home cooking, where it's used to braise meats, moisten baked goods, or add depth to sauces.

🍳 View the full Homemade Applesauce recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This cooking liquid is high in natural carbohydrates from the apples' sugars and fiber, with negligible fat and protein. It provides vitamin C and potassium, and a typical half-cup serving contains roughly 50-70 calories, depending on added sugars or spices.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	102 kcal
Protein	0.3 g
Carbs	27.6 g
Fat	0.2 g
Fiber	2.3 g
Sugar	22.5 g
Sodium	4 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Vitamin C	14 mg
Vitamin A	150 IU
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Manganese	0.1 mg
Magnesium	11 mg
Phosphorus	18 mg
Iron	0.4 mg

Per 1 cup (245 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Using applesauce as a cooking liquid is a clever way to reduce added fats and sugars in recipes, as its natural pectin helps thicken sauces while imparting a subtle, fruity tang that complements both savory and sweet dishes.