There is something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of fruit simmering on the stove, especially when it fills the kitchen with the scent of cinnamon. I started making this Vegetarian Apricot Applesauce years ago when I wanted a sugar-free snack that didn’t feel like a compromise. Honestly, the natural sweetness from the dates and dried apricots completely transforms the humble apple into something that tastes like dessert but is healthy enough for breakfast. It’s incredibly simple, budget-friendly, and has become a staple in my fridge for a quick, guilt-free treat!
Yields: 4 cups (approx. 32 oz / 900 g) Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (approx. 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 0.33 cup (2.7 fl oz / 80 ml) water
- 0.5 cup (2.3 oz / 65 g) dried apricots, chopped
- 4 large dates (approx. 2.5 oz / 70 g), pitted and chopped
- 0.5 tsp (1.3 g) ground cinnamon (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping 6 medium apples (approx. 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg) into even 1-inch chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
- Place the chopped apples and 0.33 cup (2.7 fl oz / 80 ml) of water into a large soup pot or stockpot and bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes, removing the lid occasionally to stir the apples.
- Add the 0.5 cup (2.3 oz / 65 g) of chopped dried apricots and 4 chopped dates (approx. 2.5 oz / 70 g) to the pot and simmer covered for another 10–15 minutes until all fruit is soft and tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat and mash the mixture with a large fork to reach a chunky consistency, or allow it to cool slightly and purée in a high-speed blender until completely smooth.
- Stir in 0.5 tsp (1.3 g) of ground cinnamon, taste the applesauce, and add more spice if desired before serving warm or chilling 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 for the Best Results
As a chef, I’ve found that a few small adjustments can take applesauce from “good” to “incredible.” Here are my top tips for this specific recipe:
- Mix Your Apple Varieties: Don’t just stick to one type of apple. I love using a mix of McIntosh (which breaks down easily) and Granny Smith or Fuji (which hold their shape better). This creates a complex flavor profile that balances tart and sweet notes perfectly.
- Soak Dry Dates: If your dates feel a bit hard or dry, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before chopping. This ensures they blend seamlessly into the sauce rather than leaving chewy chunks.
- Leave the Peels On (Optional): If you are going to use a high-powered blender at the end, consider leaving the skins on the apples. This adds extra fiber and gives the Vegetarian Apricot Applesauce a beautiful rustic color, though the texture will be slightly less silky.
- Spice It Up: While cinnamon is classic, a pinch of nutmeg, ground ginger, or even a dash of cardamom works wonders with the flavor of dried apricots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which apples are best for homemade applesauce? Softer apple varieties like McIntosh, Golden Delicious, and Cortland are best because they break down quickly and naturally create a smooth texture. However, mixing in a tart apple like Granny Smith adds a nice depth of flavor to the sweetness of the apricots and dates.
Can I freeze Vegetarian Apricot Applesauce? Yes, this applesauce freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or silicone freezer bags. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Absolutely. Although the title says “Vegetarian,” the ingredients are 100% plant-based, making this recipe naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. It is an excellent snack for those with dietary restrictions.
How long does homemade applesauce last in the fridge? Since this recipe does not contain artificial preservatives, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 5 to 7 days.
I hope you love this Vegetarian Apricot Applesauce as much as I do! It is truly proof that you don’t need added refined sugar to create a treat that tastes indulgent. Whether you serve it warm over oatmeal, swirl it into yogurt, or just enjoy a bowl on its own, it’s a wholesome way to enjoy the season’s bounty. Give it a try this week—your tastebuds (and your grocery budget) will thank you!
