Artificial Food Coloring Free Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce
Store-bought applesauce is one of those sneaky products that often hides synthetic dyes in flavored or "fun" varieties, making the label-reading process more exhausting than it should be. This homemade version sidesteps all of that with just real apples, a drizzle of honey, warm spices, and a pinch of salt — nothing artificial, nothing unnecessary. Ceylon cinnamon brings a softer, more floral warmth than the standard supermarket stuff, and paired with a hint of ginger, the flavor is genuinely layered and interesting. The chunky texture is the real star here — you mash it to your liking, so every spoonful has those satisfying bits of tender apple throughout. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens everything up and keeps the color looking naturally gorgeous. It works beautifully as a side dish, a topping for oatmeal or pancakes, or honestly just eaten straight from the jar with a spoon.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 3 lbs apples (about 6 medium), peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground ceylon cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the apple chunks, water, honey, Ceylon cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
- 2
Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are completely tender and beginning to break down, about 15–18 minutes. The apples should offer no resistance when pressed with a spoon.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!