Easy Homemade Chunky Applesauce

Take advantage of peak apple season and make homemade applesauce. In less than 45 minutes, you’ll be enjoying fiber- and antioxidant-rich applesauce with no added fat or sugar. Double citrus -- orange and lemon -- add a hint of tartness to balance natural sweetness. If you like, keep the skins on the apples for even more fiber plus cancer- and disease-fighting antioxidants. Find natural apple juice in the refrigerated juice section.

Makes about 10 servings (1/2 cup each)

Ingredients
4 pounds apples (use a combination of Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and McIntosh)
1 cup natural pure-pressed apple juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons fresh orange juice
1/4 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided

Directions
1.  Peel, core and cut apples into 1-inch chunks.

2.  In a 5 quart saucepan, combine apple chunks, apple juice, lemon and orange juices and zests, allspice and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Bring to a boil.

3.   Reduce heat, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender (about 30 to 35 minutes).

4.  Remove from heat and stir in remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.

5.  Using a fork, wooden spoon or potato masher, mash apple mixture slightly, leaving some chunks.

6.  Refrigerate leftovers in tightly covered container.

Nutrition information (per 1/2 cup serving)
82 calories
0 g protein
22 g carbohydrates
0 g fat
0 mg cholesterol
4 mg sodium
14 mg calcium
0.4 mg iron
75 IU Vitamin A
8 mg vitamin C
3.5 g fiber