Cook's Illustrated

Applesauce for Everyone

As I began this project, I was often asked the question “Do adults actually eat applesauce?” My response: If they don’t, they should, because applesauce is easy to make and it packs all the sweet-tart character of orchard-fresh apples into a deliciously concentrated format. Spooned warm and fragrant from a bowl, it’s a cozy treat on its own, but it also makes a great accompaniment to roasted meat or potato pancakes. Don’t let memories of that vaguely apple-flavored beige stuff from the supermarket turn you against applesauce. As a discerning adult, you deserve the real thing.

The traditional method for making applesauce is simple: Cut unpeeled apples into chunks; throw them into a saucepan with some water, a bit of sugar, and maybe a pinch of salt; and bring it all to a boil. Cover and simmer until the apples are soft, and then transfer everything to a food mill and crank away.

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