Basic Applesauce

Recipe from Everyday, October 2005

3 pounds apples, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 cinnamon stick
2 to 4 tablespoons sugar or honey
3/4 cup water
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

In a large saucepan, combine apples with 1 cinnamon stick, 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar or honey, and 3/4 cup water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender, 30 to 35 minutes. (If sauce begins to stick to the bottom of the pan, add 2 to 4 tablespoons more water.) Remove from heat; discard cinnamon stick. Stir in 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice.