Anjali Arora
This rhubarb-infused applesauce combines the natural sweetness of tart apples with the tangy punch of rhubarb, creating a unique and flavorful twist on traditional applesauce.
Perfectly balanced with a touch of sugar, this easy-to-make sauce is great as a snack, dessert topping, or a side dish. Whether served warm or chilled, it offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors that’s sure to please.
Table of Contents
Behind the Recipe
The tartness of rhubarb and sweetness of apples blend beautifully in this easy applesauce recipe. It’s a perfect way to use rhubarb when it’s in season, adding an exciting zing to the usual applesauce. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld, creating a sweet yet tangy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- A unique, tangy twist on traditional applesauce
- Made with tart apples and slightly sweetened with sugar
- Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
- Perfect for pairing with meats, yogurt, or serving on its own
- Customizable sweetness to suit your taste
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste; you can use less or more depending on the sweetness of the apples and rhubarb.
- Simmer the apples and rhubarb gently to prevent burning and allow them to soften and break down.
- Mash or puree the applesauce to your preferred texture smooth or chunky.
- If the applesauce is too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Knife and chopping board
- Saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Potato masher or immersion blender (optional for smoother texture)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients in This Recipe
- 4 cups apples, peeled and chopped (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith)
- 1 cup frozen rhubarb (thawed slightly if frozen hard)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water (for simmering)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Apples: Any tart apple variety works well, such as Honeycrisp or Jonathan.
- Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb can be used instead of frozen, but it will need a slightly longer cooking time and may require more stirring to ensure it softens evenly.
- Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used for a more natural sweetness.
- Water: You can substitute water with apple juice or cider for extra flavor.
Ingredient Spotlight
- Tart Apples: Provide natural sweetness with a hint of acidity, perfect for applesauce.
- Rhubarb: Adds a tangy contrast and deepens the flavor profile of the applesauce.
- Sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples and rhubarb, making the sauce perfectly sweet.
- Water: Helps create the right consistency for a smooth, pourable applesauce.
How To Make This Recipe
- In a saucepan, combine peeled and chopped apples, thawed rhubarb, and water.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples and rhubarb have softened and broken down.
- Mash with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Start with ½ cup of sugar and taste the applesauce after simmering. If it’s still too tart, add more sugar or honey in small increments, adjusting to your preference.
- If the applesauce is too thick, add a splash of apple juice or apple cider instead of water to maintain the flavor while adjusting consistency.
- Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Let cool and serve immediately, or refrigerate for later use.
Rhubarb-Infused Applesauce
This applesauce is prepared by cooking peeled and chopped apples with frozen rhubarb, sugar, and a splash of water. The mixture is simmered until the rhubarb breaks down and melds into the apples, resulting in a bright pink, chunky sauce with a tart flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine peeled and chopped apples, thawed rhubarb, and water.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples and rhubarb have softened and broken down.
- Mash with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Start with ½ cup of sugar and taste the applesauce after simmering. If it’s still too tart, add more sugar or honey in small increments, adjusting to your preference.
- If the applesauce is too thick, add a splash of apple juice or apple cider instead of water to maintain the flavor while adjusting consistency.
- Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Let cool and serve immediately, or refrigerate for later use.
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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the applesauce in small portions for up to 3 months.
- You can also freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in small portions.
How to Serve This Dish
Serve the applesauce as a side dish with roasted meats, pork chops, or sausages.
It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or dessert, paired with yogurt or granola.
Additional Tips
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- You can leave the skins on the apples if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Add more water if the applesauce is too thick after simmering.
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Spread it on toast or pancakes for a sweet and tangy topping.
- Swirl it into oatmeal for a comforting breakfast.
- Use it as a filling for cakes, muffins, or pies.
Make It a Showstopper
- Serve the applesauce in decorative bowls or mason jars for a homemade gift.
- Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
- Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves.
- Berry Version: Add mixed berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Caramelized Apple: Sauté the apples in butter before adding to the pot for a deeper flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh rhubarb instead of frozen? Yes, fresh rhubarb works just as well—just chop it into small pieces and add to the pot.
- How do I prevent the applesauce from being too tart? If you find the applesauce too tart, you can add a bit more sugar or honey to balance it out.
- Can I make this recipe without rhubarb? Yes, it will be a simple apple sauce, but the rhubarb adds a unique tang that you’ll miss!
- How can I make this applesauce sweeter? Add more sugar or maple syrup to adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Can I make this applesauce smoother? Yes, you can blend the applesauce with a regular blender or use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother texture.
- Can I make this applesauce without sugar? Yes, you can skip the sugar or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or stevia to adjust the sweetness.
- Can I add spices to the applesauce? Yes, adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can elevate the flavor, making it even more aromatic.
- Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 3–4 hours, checking after 2–3 hours to ensure the fruit breaks down properly. On high, it may take 1.5–2 hours, but be cautious not to overcook.
- Is this applesauce suitable for babies? Yes, this applesauce can be served to babies, as it’s made with whole ingredients and no added preservatives. Just skip the sugar for a healthier option
- . Can I use this applesauce as a filling for pastries or cakes? Yes, this rhubarb-infused applesauce works wonderfully as a filling for cakes, pies, or pastries.
Hi, I’m Anjali Arora — the curious heart behind Feast Chase.
To be honest, I’ve always felt most at ease in my own company. I’m not exactly a people-person (small talk still makes me cringe), but there are two things I’ve always loved deeply: animals and food.