During the fall months, when apples are in season here on the East Coast, I like to go to our local orchard and buy Gala’s by the bushel. Once I get them home, I like to make and freeze applesauce and apple pie filling.

It is really a simple process and can save you a lot of money. I take a weekend afternoon and do it in a few hours. When you buy your apples, buy them in bulk and check them for any bad spots. Stay away from apples that have been exposed to heat for a long period of time. You’ll want to remove any bad spots you find.

The following 2 recipes were given to me by my grandmother in the 1980’s and to this day, they are the 2 recipes I use.

apple pie filling recipe

4-6 apples

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Wash the apples and then dry them. Peel, core and cut into segments. In a medium bowl, combine the wedges, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Gently toss the apples until they are coated with sugar and lemon juice. Pack in freezer-safe bags or plastic containers leaving 1/2″ headspace.

Note: You can use an anti-browning agent like Fruit Fresh instead of lemon juice.

applesauce recipe

4-6 apples

Water

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Wash the apples and then peel, core and cut into small pieces. Place the pieces in a saucepan with enough water to prevent burning. Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Turn burner to low heat and slowly cook mixture until apples are cooked through and soften. Drain any remaining water. Put the mixture in a blender or food processor until it has the consistency of applesauce. Cool, then spoon into freezer-safe containers leaving 1/2″ headspace. Additional cinnamon may be sprinkled on top if desired before sealing.