• Prep: Wash the apples, even if they're organic. Cut in half through the stem and cut out the core. Remove the core, seeds and stem and then choose to peel, or not. I use a melon baller to scoop out the center and a small paring knife for the peels. If you do peel the apples, save one longish strand (it will be easier to remove at the end) of red apple peel to add in the batch for color.

  Cut each apple half into 2-3 sections.

  Wash the outside of the lemon. Cut a thick piece of the peel.

Instant Pot Directions

• Place apple pieces, cinnamon sticks and lemon peel into the instant pot. Juice the lemon right over the pot. Pour on ¼ cup water.
• Seal the instant pot and set to high pressure for 8 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
• Remove cinnamon sticks, apple peel and lemon peel. Stir well. Mash any larger chunks of apple with the back of a spoon for chunky applesauce. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to puree.

Crockpot Applesauce Directions

• Place apple pieces, cinnamon sticks and lemon peel into the crock pot. Juice the lemon right over the pot. DO NOT ADD WATER. Set the slow cooker on high for 4 hours.
• Remove cinnamon sticks, apple peel and lemon peel. Stir well. Mash any larger chunks of apple with the back of a spoon for chunky applesauce. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to puree.

Stovetop directions

• Cut apple pieces in half. Place apples, cinnamon sticks and lemon peel into a large pot. Juice the lemon right over the pot. Pour on ¼ cup water.
• Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If apples aren't tender enough to mash, continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Remove cinnamon sticks, apple peel and lemon peel. Stir well. Mash any larger chunks of apple with the back of a spoon for chunky applesauce. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender to puree.

To make Raw Applesauce

• Remove core, stem and seeds of apples as instructed above. You do not need to peel the apples, but wash them well. Place apple pieces into a high speed blender. Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon rather than the cinnamon sticks. Squeeze the lemon over the blender bowl.
• Blend on high until your desired consistency is achieved. If you're using a Vitamix, use the tamper to get things going and if needed, add 1-2 tablespoons water. If you're using a food processor, use the pulse button so you don't over process and wind up with mush.
• Raw applesauce is best eaten right away. You can store it for 2-3 days in an airtight container in the fridge.