I know I just made applesauce, but I couldn’t resist.
The applesauce I made a few weeks ago was simple and delicious. But it was also a bit… boring. I stumbled upon this recipe in Traverse magazine and have since dubbed it dessert applesauce.
I was reeled in with the idea of ice cream on top, though I knew that it would be too rich to eat as a side dish with a meal. It reminded me of an apple crisp without the crisp – but even better. Hence the “dessert.”
The recipe specifically warned against using honeycrisp apples, so I used galas. They seemed to work great!
After topping the applesauce with a scoop of french vanilla ice cream, I sprinkled some candied ginger on it too. As you can see, the ice cream got all melty since the applesauce was still warm. I love the combo of the warm apples and cold ice cream together.
I’m amazed that I could even get the applesauce into a bowl and add the ice cream since I couldn’t stop eating it straight from the pot.
Dessert Applesauce
from Traverse magazine
serves 3-4
4 gala apples, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (I added this in)
pinch of ground cloves
pinch of ground ginger
pinch of nutmeg
vanilla ice cream for serving
Add chopped apples to a pot and just cover with water. Add sugar, syrup, lemon zest, vanilla and spices and bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered until apples are mushy, about 45-60 minutes. Add more water if needed. Turn off heat and mash apples. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Before last week I have never made homemade applesauce, nor had I even tasted it. Now I don’t think I’m ever going to stop making it. Or eating it.
I’m Jessica and this is where I share my stuff. You will find a balance of healthy recipes, comfort food and indulgent desserts.
I’ve never thought about a thicker sweeter dessert applesauce, yum.
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greatness! I make my applesauce a little different every time it seems too. That topping seals the deal!
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This looks soooo yummy!!!!
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I made applesauce yesterday, but this sounds much fancier than mine!!! Mmmm!
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This looks SO delicious!
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My mom used to make a delicious homemade apple sauce. It smells so good! Adding ice cream is genius.
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When i was 12 i made applesauce from my kids betty crocker cookbook. Let me tell you, this looks like one amazing applesauce. I may try it – first time in dozens of years.
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This looks terrific… but I’m a little unsure of when you are supposed to add the sugar & maple syrup? Thanks… :)
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Ohhhh my! That looks like some seriously good applesauce :)
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I made something similar the other day. It was delicious! Your recipe certainly looks MORE appetizing though. And I didn’t have any vanilla ice cream :(
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My mouth is watering..Love love love it!
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This looks scrumptious! I have all of the ingredients except the ice cream in my pantry/fridge right now – I’m making this tomorrow!
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Do you think i could make this a day ahead? I’m considering it for my contribution to thanksgiving with the in-laws…
other make ahead suggestions welcome!
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Jessica — November 22nd, 2010 @ 4:12 pm
Yes I think you could! It can be served hot or cold.
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ahhh Traverse City, Michigan. Home sweet home! I’m cooking up some delicious apple dessert at the moment, and it smells as good as it sounds! I added vanilla and almond extract (1/2 teaspoon each) plus a touch of honey because I didn’t have cloves or ginger around. It’s gunna be a sweet treat! Thanks for all of your wonderful recipes!
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This is amazing, I made it for dessert the other night and getting ready to make it again. I added a little pumpkin pie spice and going to put it over vanilla greek yogurt instead.
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