Can You Use Granny Smith Apples for Applesauce? (& How to…)

Yes, you can use granny smith apples for making applesauce. The tartness of the granny smith apples will be a good match for applesauce because tartness is a significant taste in apple sauce. And it can be a nice contrast to the sweetness of other apples used in the sauce.

Though granny smith apples are a good choice for applesauce, they are not the best choice for it as they are quite crisp. The best ones are the ones that are less crisp and that will mash down easier.

Continue reading if you’re ready to make a batch or two of homemade applesauce and want to learn everything about why Granny Smith apples are such a great choice.

Why Use Granny Smith Apples for Applesauce?

There are many reasons to use granny smith apples for applesauce such as;

• One reason to use granny smith apples is that they are widely available. They can be found in most grocery stores all year round.
• Another reason to use them is that they have a long shelf life. They can last for up to six months in the refrigerator and up to a year in the freezer.
• Another reason to use granny smith apples is that they are a great choice for tart apple sauces. Their tartness can be a good contrast to the sweetness of other apples used in the sauce. Additionally, granny smith apples can help make the applesauce have a more complex flavor.
• Granny Smith apples are tart and firm. They can hold up well in cooked applications like applesauce.

If you’re looking for an apple that will add tartness and firmness to your applesauce, Granny Smith is the best option.

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How to Use Granny Smith Apples for Applesauce?

There are a few different ways that you can use granny smith apples for applesauce.

The most common way is to simply peel and chop the apples and then cook them in a pot over medium heat until they are soft. Then, use an immersion blender or a food processor to blend the apples into a puree.

Another way to use them is to cook them in a slow cooker. Peel and chop the apples and then add them to the slow cooker.

Cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours. Then, use an immersion blender or food processor to blend the apples into a puree.

If you wish to soften the tartness, add a few sweeter apples, such as Golden Delicious or Fuji, to the mix for a more balanced flavor.

When selecting granny smith apples for applesauce, choose apples that are firm and have bright green skin. Avoid apples that are bruised or have soft spots.

If you want to use granny smith apples for canning or freezing, it’s best to wait until after the first frost. This will help to sweeten the apples and will also help them to keep their color.

Alternatives to Granny Smith Apples for Applesauce

While there is only one Granny Smith apple variety, there are several viable substitutes with similar features.

Try Envy, McIntosh, Pink Lady, Northern Spy, or Spartan apples if you want fresh apple slices. All of these apples have a lovely tart crunch.

Golden Delicious has a yellow-green color and has a wonderful balanced sweet-tart taste when freshly picked, although a similar brilliant green apple peel is rarely common in supermarket shops. 

Braeburn can be used instead of Granny Smith in baking. If Braeburn isn’t available, Golden Delicious or Jonagold are good alternatives.

The flavor will be slightly different, but when cooked in a pie or crumble, these kinds tend to keep their texture. 

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Conclusion

Granny Smith apples are a great choice for making applesauce. Their tart flavor and bright green skin is a perfect match for the sweetener of your choice.

They are also a good source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants.

So next time you’re in the mood for some homemade applesauce, don’t forget about the Granny Smith apple!