Traditional Dutch Appelmoes: Homemade Apple Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg of apples
100 grams of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
50 ml of water
1 lemon, juiced

Steps and instructions

Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into small pieces.
Place the apple pieces into a large pot.
Add the sugar, cinnamon, water, and lemon juice into the pot.
Heat the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the mixture has a thick, smooth consistency. This should take about 20-30 minutes.
Take the pot off the heat and let the apple sauce cool.
Once cooled, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
Serve the appelmoes chilled. It can be stored in the fridge for up to one week.

Tools for making

Peeler - To peel the apples.
Knife - To remove the cores and cut the apples into small pieces.
Large pot - To cook the apple mixture.
Wooden spoon - To stir the mixture while cooking.
Immersion blender - To puree the cooked apple mixture into a smooth consistency.

Recipe variations

Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.
Replace the white sugar with brown sugar or honey for a different sweetness.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for a subtle vanilla flavor.
Mix in other fruits such as pears or berries for a mixed fruit appelmoes.
For a spicy twist, add a small amount of finely chopped chili pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred flavor profile.
For a healthier option, reduce the amount of sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or stevia.
Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy for an adult version of appelmoes.
Include a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for added texture.

Recipe overview

Appelmoes, also known as Dutch apple sauce, is a delightful, simple, and versatile dish that can serve as a side, a dessert, or a healthy snack. It's made by cooking apples down with some sugar, a touch of cinnamon for warmth, and lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The result is a smooth, sweet-tart sauce that's incredibly comforting and delicious. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, but the outcome is a dish that's more than the sum of its parts. Let's get started with this classic Dutch delicacy.

Common questions

Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of apples for this recipe. However, sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji apples are recommended for a more flavorful applesauce.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar might result in a less sweet applesauce.
Can I substitute the cinnamon with another spice?
Yes, you can substitute cinnamon with other spices such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different flavor profile.
Can I store the applesauce at room temperature?
No, it is recommended to store the applesauce in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It can be stored for up to one week.
Can I freeze the applesauce for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the applesauce in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Serving dishes and utensils

Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the apple mixture.
Immersion blender - An immersion blender is useful for pureeing the cooked apple mixture into a smooth consistency.
Serving bowls - Bowls to serve the chilled appelmoes.
Spoons - Spoons for scooping and serving the appelmoes.
Refrigerator - A refrigerator to chill and store the appelmoes.

Origin stories

Appelmoes, or apple sauce as it's better known to English speakers, is a staple in Dutch cuisine. The Dutch have a long history of apple cultivation, dating back to the Roman times, and this recipe highlights the apple's natural sweetness and versatility. While it's often served as a side dish with meat or used in baking, one of the most popular applications of appelmoes in the Netherlands is a simple one: served with a heap of hot, crispy fries. That's right - in the Netherlands, the combination of savory, salty fries and sweet, tangy apple sauce is as common as fries and ketchup in the United States. Perhaps this is one culinary crossover worth experimenting with in your own kitchen!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.