Bursting with natural flavors, this Cranberry Applesauce with No Sugar Added is a wholesome twist on a classic favorite, perfect for health-conscious eaters. Made with sweet, juicy apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji, and vibrant fresh cranberries, this recipe is naturally sweetened by the fruits themselvesβno added sugar required. A hint of cinnamon and a splash of fresh lemon juice add warmth and a zesty kick, while the optional addition of unsweetened applesauce lets you customize the texture to your preference. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy, stovetop recipe is the ultimate fall or holiday side dish, snack, or even a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. With its rich flavor and beautiful ruby-red hue, this guilt-free treat is as versatile as it is delicious! Perfectly suited for clean eating, sugar-free, and gluten-free diets.
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly to remove any debris.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the chopped apples, cranberries, water, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the apples and cranberries are soft and tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the mixture to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, mash lightly. For a smooth texture, blend thoroughly.
If the applesauce is too thick for your liking, you can stir in the optional unsweetened applesauce or additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to adjust the consistency.
Transfer the cranberry applesauce to a serving bowl or airtight container. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, or store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Calories |
722 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.2 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 24 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 190.5 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 36.3 g | 130% | |
| Total Sugars | 134.0 g | ||
| Protein | 4.2 g | 8% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 129 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 1447 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.