This cinnamon applesauce recipe is redolent with citrus zest, vanilla notes, and just the right amount of warm cinnamon spice. The secret, unexpected ingredient is a small dollop of apricot preserves; it enhances the ingredients to rustic perfection, without being overly discernable. This spiced applesauce can be used as a base for a classic French apple tart or as a simple accompaniment to ham or roasted poultry.
Cook's note: For a sauce that appeals to sophisticated adult palates, substitute Calvados or Cognac for the apple cider in this recipe.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds apples, peeled and cored
- 1/3 cup apricot preserves
- 1/3 cup apple cider or water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon or orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Coarsely chop the apples and place them in a large saucepan with the remaining ingreidents. Cook the fruit and spice mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes. Once the apples are tender, process the sauce, in batches, in a food processor until it is smooth. Serve the applesauce warm or cold.
This cinnamon applesauce recipe makes 10 to 12 servings.
