Cinnamon Applesauce (No Sugar)

Ingredients

• 4 large organic apples (Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp work best)
• 1/2 cup filtered water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (prevents browning)
• a pinch of salt (enhances sweetness)

Directions

1. 1

   Peel, core, and chop the apples into uniform 1-inch cubes. Keeping the size consistent ensures they all soften at the same rate.

2. 2

   Place the apple chunks in a medium heavy-bottomed pot. Add the water, lemon juice, and a tiny pinch of salt.

3. 3

   Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. As soon as it boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.

4. 4

   Simmer for about 20–25 minutes. You'll know they are ready when the apple pieces are tender enough to be crushed with the back of a wooden spoon.

5. 5

   Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the ground cinnamon until the sauce takes on a warm brown hue.

6. 6

   FOR CHUNKY SAUCE: Use a potato masher or a large fork to crush the apples manually until you reach the desired consistency.

7. 7

   FOR SMOOTH SAUCE: Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender until it's completely silky and refined.

8. 8

   Serve warm for a cozy dessert, or let it cool and refrigerate for a refreshing skin-safe snack.