Healthy Cranberry Applesauce (Printer-Friendly Version)
A vibrant blend of tart cranberries and sweet apples with warming spices and maple syrup.
# What You'll Need:
→ Apples
01 -
3 medium Fuji apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
02 -
3 medium Gala apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
03 -
2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored
→ Fruits
04 -
1½ cups fresh cranberries
→ Liquids
05 -
½ cup water
06 -
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
07 -
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
08 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Sweeteners
09 -
¼ cup brown sugar
→ Spices and Flavorings
10 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 -
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 -
1 teaspoon lemon zest
13 -
Pinch of sea salt
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Peel, core, and chop all apples into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. Rinse cranberries thoroughly, discarding any damaged or shriveled ones.
02 -
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine chopped apples, cranberries, water, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir briefly to distribute ingredients evenly.
03 -
Cover the saucepan and place over medium heat until simmering. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft and cranberries have burst.
04 -
Remove saucepan from heat. Mash with a potato masher or fork for a chunky texture, or blend with an immersion blender or regular blender for a smooth consistency.
05 -
Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity by adding extra maple syrup or lemon juice if desired. Serve warm or cooled to room temperature. Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Use mixed apple varieties for balanced sweet and tart flavors.
02 -
Avoid overcooking cranberries to preserve their bright color and tanginess.
03 -
A final sprinkle of fresh lemon or orange zest enhances brightness.
04 -
Serve chilled to highlight tartness or warm for a comforting dish.