There’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of warm fruit and cinnamon filling your kitchen. This Sugar-Free Apricot Applesauce is my go-to recipe for a wholesome snack that feels like a total indulgence. By swapping refined sugar for the natural sweetness of dates and dried apricots, we transform simple apples into a rich, dessert-worthy treat that’s healthy enough for breakfast. It’s incredibly easy, budget-friendly, and the perfect guilt-free staple to keep in your fridge!
Ingredients
• 6 medium apples approx. 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/3 cup / 80 ml water
• 1/2 cup / 65 g dried apricots, chopped
• 4 large dates approx. 2.5 oz / 70 g, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 tsp / 1.3 g ground cinnamon, plus more to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped apples and water. Bring to a low boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the chopped dried apricots and dates to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another 10–15 minutes, until all the fruit is very soft.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. For a chunky texture, mash the fruit with a fork. For a smooth sauce, allow it to cool slightly before puréeing in a blender.
5. Stir in the ground cinnamon. Taste and add more if desired. Serve warm or chill in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information
• Serving Size: 0.5 cup approx. 4 oz / 115 g
• Calories: 89 kcal
• Total Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Sugars: 19 g (Natural sugars from fruit)
• Fiber: 2.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
Pro Tips
• Mix Your Apple Varieties: Use a combination of soft apples like McIntosh and firmer, tart apples like Granny Smith for a complex flavor and great texture.
• Soak Dry Dates: If your dates are hard, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before chopping. This helps them soften and blend seamlessly into the sauce.
• Leave the Peels On (Optional): For extra fiber and a rustic color, leave the apple skins on. This works best if you plan to purée the sauce in a high-powered blender for a smooth finish.
• Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment beyond cinnamon! A pinch of nutmeg, ground ginger, or cardamom pairs beautifully with the sweet apricots.
FAQ
Q: Is this apricot applesauce recipe vegan
A: Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and plant-based. It contains only fruits, water, and spices, with no animal-derived ingredients like dairy or honey.
Q: What are some vegetarian ways to serve this applesauce
A: This applesauce is a fantastic addition to any vegetarian or vegan meal. Enjoy it swirled into oatmeal or plant-based yogurt, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or as a naturally sweet spread on toast. It’s also a delicious and healthy standalone snack.
Q: Can I use a different natural sweetener instead of dates
A: Certainly. If you don’t have dates, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like figs or prunes for a similar texture and sweetness. For a different flavor, a tablespoon of pure maple syrup can also be stirred in at the end, keeping the recipe vegan and refined sugar-free.
Q: How should I store this homemade vegetarian applesauce
A: Store the cooled applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer-term storage, it freezes beautifully. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead vegetarian staple.
