18 Delicious Recipes for Applesauce Creations

Applesauce isn’t just for snack time—it’s the secret ingredient that adds moisture, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia to everything from cozy baked goods to savory weeknight dinners. Whether you’re whipping up a quick treat or a comforting family meal, these 18 delicious applesauce recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Ready to fall in love with this pantry staple all over again? Let’s dig in!

Classic Homemade Applesauce

Nothing beats the cozy simplicity of homemade applesauce—warm, subtly spiced, and perfect for spooning over pancakes or enjoying straight from the jar.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs apples (a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the apples are completely tender (they should mash easily with a spoon).
3. Stir in 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a potato masher or fork to break the apples into your preferred texture—smooth or slightly chunky.
4. Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat. Let cool slightly before serving.

The magic here? A blend of sweet and tart apples creates a balanced flavor, while the cinnamon adds just the right warmth without overpowering.

Tip: For extra richness, stir in a pat of butter while the applesauce is still warm. It melts into a silky finish!

Cinnamon Spice Applesauce

Homemade applesauce is a cozy kitchen staple, and this version—warmed with cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg—tastes like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs apples (a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the apples, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the apples are completely softened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mash with a potato masher or blend lightly with an immersion blender for a smoother texture (leave chunky if preferred).
4. Let cool slightly before serving warm, or chill for a thicker consistency.

The magic here? The balance of sweet-tart apples and warm spices—no store-bought version compares. Try it swirled into oatmeal or dolloped on pancakes.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of vanilla extract after cooking.

Chunky Applesauce with Honey

This cozy, just-sweet-enough applesauce lets the fruit shine, with a touch of honey and cinnamon for warmth—perfect for spooning over yogurt or eating straight from the jar.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs mixed apples (like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apples, honey, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently to coat the apples.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
3. Uncover and mash lightly with a wooden spoon or potato masher for a chunky texture (or leave as-is for extra rustic). Cook another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

The magic here? The honey caramelizes just enough to deepen the flavor, while the lemon keeps it bright—no sugar overload. Serve warm or chilled.

Tip: For a fun twist, stir in a handful of dried cranberries after cooking.

Slow Cooker Applesauce

This hands-off applesauce lets your slow cooker do the work, filling your kitchen with cozy cinnamon-spiced sweetness while you go about your day.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs mixed apples (like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Toss all ingredients in your slow cooker, stirring to coat the apples evenly with spices and sugar.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, until the apples collapse easily when pressed with a spoon.
3. For chunky sauce, mash with a potato masher. For smooth, blend briefly with an immersion blender.

The slow cooker’s gentle heat coaxes out the apples’ natural jammy sweetness, while the lemon juice keeps it bright—no bland baby food here!

Tip: Freeze leftovers in muffin tins for perfectly portioned oatmeal stir-ins.

Unsweetened Applesauce for Babies

This simple, no-sugar-added applesauce is perfect for tiny taste buds—just sweet, smooth, and packed with natural flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium apples (such as Gala or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are completely soft and easily mashable with a fork.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (if using). Let cool slightly, then blend with an immersion blender or mash by hand for a chunkier texture.

The gentle cooking method locks in the apples’ natural sweetness, making it irresistibly smooth without any added sugar—ideal for baby’s first bites!

Tip: Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays for easy single-serving portions.

Applesauce Pancakes

These fluffy, spiced applesauce pancakes are a cozy twist on the classic—naturally sweet and perfect for lazy weekend mornings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for cooking)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt.
2. In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup applesauce, 1/2 cup buttermilk, the egg, and 1 tbsp melted butter until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (small lumps are okay).
4. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and brush with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top. Flip and cook for 1–2 more minutes until golden.

The applesauce keeps these pancakes incredibly moist while adding a subtle fruity warmth—no syrup needed!

Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Applesauce Muffins

These cozy applesauce muffins are tender, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Sprinkle each with a pinch of granulated sugar.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring.

The applesauce keeps these muffins incredibly moist, while the cinnamon-sugar topping adds a subtle crunch. They’re even better the next day!

Tip: Swap half the applesauce for chunky homemade applesauce if you love extra texture.

Applesauce Bread with Walnuts

This cozy Applesauce Bread with Walnuts is a moist, warmly spiced treat that’s perfect with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup chopped walnuts

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the applesauce and vanilla.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in the walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The applesauce keeps this bread incredibly tender, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Tip: For extra warmth, swap the nutmeg for ¼ tsp ground cloves!

Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies

These soft, spiced cookies get their cozy flavor from cinnamon-kissed applesauce and chewy oats—perfect with a glass of milk or tucked into lunchboxes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups oats, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in 1/2 cup applesauce, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
5. Drop 1-tbsp scoops of dough onto sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
6. Let cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

The applesauce keeps these cookies irresistibly moist while letting the oats shine—no raisins required!

Tip: For extra texture, fold in 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or dried cranberries with the oats.

Applesauce Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This cozy, spiced cake is ultra-moist thanks to applesauce, and the tangy cream cheese frosting takes it over the top—perfect for potlucks or a lazy Sunday treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp cloves in a bowl.
3. Beat ½ cup butter and ¾ cup sugar until fluffy. Add 1 egg, 1 cup applesauce, and 1 tsp vanilla; mix until smooth.
4. Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Pour into pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
5. For frosting, beat 4 oz cream cheese, 2 tbsp butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla until smooth. Spread over cooled cake.

The secret? The applesauce keeps the cake tender for days, while the frosting adds just the right creamy contrast.

Tip: For extra warmth, swap ¼ cup sugar with brown sugar in the batter.

Applesauce Smoothie with Berries

This creamy, fruity smoothie blends the cozy taste of applesauce with bright berries for a refreshing sip that feels like a hug in a glass.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 3-4 ice cubes (optional, for thickness)

Instructions:

1. Add the applesauce, frozen berries, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey (if using), cinnamon, and vanilla extract to a blender.
2. Blend on high for 45–60 seconds until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. For a thicker texture, add ice cubes and blend again for 10–15 seconds.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

The magic here is how the tangy berries balance the sweetness of applesauce—plus, the cinnamon adds just the right warmth to make it taste like dessert for breakfast.

Tip: Swap the mixed berries for frozen peaches or mango if you prefer a tropical twist!

Applesauce Granola Bars

These wholesome granola bars get their chewy texture and natural sweetness from applesauce, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix oats, peanut butter, applesauce, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

The applesauce keeps these bars moist without being overly sticky—ideal for lunchboxes or post-workout fuel.

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the oats in a dry skillet for 5 minutes before mixing.

Applesauce Waffles

These fluffy, spiced waffles get their tender crumb and subtle sweetness from a generous scoop of applesauce—perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter, slightly cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high (about 375°F) and lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the 2 eggs, then whisk in the 1 1/2 cups milk, 1/2 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined (a few lumps are okay).
5. Cook batter in the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 4–5 minutes per waffle, until golden and crisp.

The applesauce keeps these waffles irresistibly moist while adding a hint of autumn spice—no syrup needed, though a dollop of whipped cream never hurts!

Tip: For extra apple flavor, fold in 1/2 cup finely diced fresh apple into the batter before cooking.

Applesauce Glazed Carrots

These tender, sweet-and-savory carrots get a cozy upgrade with a glossy applesauce glaze—perfect for brightening up any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Add the carrots and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the 1/2 cup applesauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the carrots are fork-tender.
3. Uncover and cook for 2–3 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley (if using).

The applesauce adds a subtle tang that balances the maple’s sweetness, while the slow simmer gives these carrots a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Tip: For extra depth, swap the butter for browned butter—just toast it in the skillet until nutty before adding the carrots.

Applesauce BBQ Sauce

Sweet, tangy, and just a little smoky, this applesauce BBQ sauce is a game-changer for ribs, pulled pork, or even grilled veggies—no fancy ingredients required.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, and 2 tbsp brown sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt.
3. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld. Remove from heat and let cool.

The applesauce gives this BBQ sauce a subtle fruitiness that balances the smokiness—perfect for slathering or dipping. Tip: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne with the other spices!

Applesauce Pork Chops

These tender pork chops get a sweet-and-savory upgrade with a cozy applesauce glaze—perfect for turning a simple weeknight dinner into something special.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Reduce heat to low and pour the applesauce mixture over the chops. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, flipping once, until the pork reaches 145°F internally and the glaze thickens slightly.

The magic here? The applesauce caramelizes into a sticky glaze while keeping the pork juicy—no dry chops allowed! Serve with a spoonful of the pan sauce over each chop.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the applesauce with apple butter or add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze.

Applesauce Marinade for Chicken

This sweet-and-tangy marinade gives chicken a tender, juicy texture with a hint of cozy autumn flavor—no fancy ingredients required!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup applesauce, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until smooth.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, turning to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Shake excess marinade off chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and edges caramelize slightly.

The natural sugars in the applesauce create a subtle glaze while keeping the chicken incredibly moist—no drying out here! Serve with roasted veggies or over a crisp salad.

Tip: For extra smokiness, add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade or finish with a drizzle of hot honey.

Applesauce Ice Cream

This creamy, no-churn ice cream blends the cozy flavor of homemade applesauce with a dreamy vanilla base—no ice cream maker required!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups heavy cream, chilled

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the applesauce mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the cream.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or airtight container. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface, then freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.

The magic here? The applesauce keeps the texture luxuriously smooth—no icy crystals—while adding a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or toasted pecans before serving.

Conclusion

With 18 delicious ways to use applesauce—from moist cakes to savory sauces—this roundup proves just how versatile it can be! We hope you found a new favorite to try. Don’t forget to leave a comment telling us which recipe you loved most, and share the inspiration on Pinterest. Happy cooking!