Spicy Red Hot Applesauce: A Warm & Zesty Classic (Print Version)

Red Hot Applesauce recipe brings warmth with cinnamon and a gentle kick. Perfect for cozy mornings or a unique side. Easy to make at home!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 6 medium apples (like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
02 - 1/2 cup water

→ Flavor Boosters

03 - 1/2 cup Red Hots candies
04 - 1 cinnamon stick
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

→ Optional

06 - Granulated Sugar (optional, to taste)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, peel, core, and chop your apples into roughly 1-inch pieces. I'm not super precise here, honestly, sometimes they're a bit chunky, sometimes smaller. Just try to keep them somewhat uniform so they cook evenly. This is where the aromas start, that fresh apple scent is just lovely, getting you ready for that amazing applesauce.
02 - Toss the chopped apples into a large saucepan. Add the water, red hots candies, and the cinnamon stick. Bring it all to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer. I always peek a little too early, but resist the urge for at least 15 minutes! You want those apples to get really tender for the best results.
03 - Continue to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the apples are super soft and easily mash with a spoon. This is where the magic happens! The red hots melt, turning everything a gorgeous rosy color, and the whole kitchen smells divine. You'll see the apples start to break down, getting ready to become that smooth, spicy treat we love.
04 - Once the apples are tender, remove the cinnamon stick. Using a potato masher, fork, or even an immersion blender (if you like it super smooth), mash the apples to your desired consistency. I like a little texture in mine, so I don't go crazy. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Now, taste it! This is important. If your apples weren't super sweet, or you want more zing, add a little granulated sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until it's just right.
05 - Give your creation one last good stir. If it seems too thick, you can add a tiny splash more hot water to reach your preferred consistency. If it's too thin, a quick simmer uncovered for a few minutes can help it reduce. It's all about personal preference here! I always serve mine warm, but it's great chilled too, honestly.
06 - See? You've made a delicious batch of homemade applesauce! It should be beautifully pink, smelling of warm cinnamon and that distinct spicy kick. Spoon it into bowls, serve it as a side, or use it in your favorite recipes. It’s so rewarding to make something this flavorful from scratch, and it's so much better than anything from a jar, trust me!

# Notes:

01 - Don't rush the simmering! Those apples need time to soften completely to get that silky smooth texture. Always taste before adding sugar; some apples are naturally sweeter, and the red hots bring their own sweetness. The color comes from the red hots melting, so don't worry if it looks a little pale at first-it'll get there! For an extra smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender right in the pot after removing the cinnamon stick. If you want an even bolder color, a tiny drop of red food coloring can really make it pop. Try adding a tiny pinch of ground cloves or allspice along with the cinnamon stick for a more complex spiced flavor.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large saucepan
02 - potato masher
03 - fork
04 - or immersion blender

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: Not available
Total Fat: Not available
Total Carbohydrate: Not available
Protein: Not available

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