Enjoy the perfect fall snack with this Pumpkin Applesauce recipe. Just apples, pumpkin, and spices – it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
This pumpkin applesauce recipe is a cozy, fall-inspired twist on classic snack. It blends together fresh apples and pumpkin (or pumpkin puree) with warm fall spices to create a delectable treat! Plus I love that my kiddos will eat this up and it gets a vegetable in their system. Wins all around!
For more yummy pumpkin recipes you have to check out my Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes, Homemade Pumpkin Bagels, and Pumpkin Zucchini Bread.
Table of Contents
Reasons to Love This Applesauce
- The Pumpkin Applesauce recipe is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- It’s wholesome and healthy, without any added preservatives.
- Pumpkin Applesauce can be enjoyed as an afternoon snack, dessert, or a side dish.
Recipe Ingredients
- Apples: Provide a sweet, tart flavor and a chunky, soft texture when cooked.
- Pumpkin: Adds a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, earthy sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Infuses the applesauce with a warm spice and creates a cozy, comforting flavor.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Apple Varieties: Substitute the apples with a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for a balance of tart and sweet flavors, maintaining the original taste of the Pumpkin Applesauce recipe.
- Sweetener Alternative: Substitute sugar with 2-4 tbsp. of maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
How to Make Pumpkin Applesauce
Step 1: Place the sliced apples, pumpkin, water (or juice), cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in a large pot or saucepan set over medium heat. Add sugar if desired.
Step 2: Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Step 3: Use a potato masher, immersion blender, blender, or food processor to puree the apples, keeping them slightly chunky.
Step 4: Let the applesauce cool to room temperature, then store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Expert Tips
- Pumpkin Preparation: If using fresh pumpkin, roast it beforehand to enhance its natural sweetness and flavor.
- Spice Blend: For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of cloves or allspice along with the cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.
Pumpkin Applesauce Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Topping: Add it to oatmeal, yogurt, buttered toast, or pancakes for a delicious start to your day.
- Baking: Use it as a substitute for oil or butter in muffins, cakes, and breads to add moisture and flavor.
- Muffins: Mix it into your batter for extra moisture and pumpkin flavor, whether you’re making pumpkin muffins, healthier pumpkin applesauce muffins, or mini muffins.
- Smoothies: Blend it into smoothies for a rich, autumnal flavor.
- Side Dish: Serve it alongside pork, chicken, or turkey for a sweet and savory complement.
Frequently Asked Questions
To make your Pumpkin Applesauce smooth, use a blender or food processor and blend until you achieve your desired consistency. You can also use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a quicker method.
Yes, you can make Pumpkin Applesauce in an Instant Pot. Combine all ingredients, set to high pressure for 8 minutes, and then release pressure naturally. Blend to desired consistency.
Storage Info
To STORE Pumpkin Applesauce, let it cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. To FREEZE, store it in your freezer for up to three months.
Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use. To REHEAT, warm the applesauce on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
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Pumpkin Applesauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 lb. apples - peeled or unpeeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 2 c. cubed pumpkin or 1 c. puree
- 1 c. water or apple cider
- 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 2-4 tbsp. sugar - optional*
Instructions
- Place the sliced apples, pumpkin, water (or juice), cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in a large pot or saucepan set over medium heat. Add sugar if desired.
- Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
- Use a potato masher, immersion blender, blender, or food processor to puree the apples, keeping them slightly chunky.
- Let the applesauce cool to room temperature, then store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
The apples stay naturally sweet and the pumpkin makes it extra creamy. So good!! π