Name: Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lb apples, peeled, quartered, and diced; 3 cups frozen wild blueberries; 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp lemon juice); 1/4 cup coconut sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

Jump to Recipe

There is something absolutely magical about the combination of sweet, tart apples and juicy wild blueberries, especially when infused with the warm, comforting notes of vanilla. This Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce is a burst of vibrant flavor and velvety texture that feels like a hug in a jar. Whether you are spooning it over breakfast, adding it to your favorite desserts, or simply enjoying it by the spoonful, this applesauce brings a fresh and wholesome taste that is perfect year-round. It’s a delightful way to brighten up any meal with a splash of fruit-forward goodness.

Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and with this Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce, simplicity truly shines. Each component plays a special role, from the sweet apples providing the perfect base to the tangy blueberries adding a pop of color and flavor, while vanilla and lemon brighten and balance the mix beautifully.

4 lb apples: Peeled, quartered, and diced, these create the smooth and naturally sweet foundation of the sauce.
3 cups frozen wild blueberries: Their deep color and tartness add a vibrant twist that makes this applesauce unique.
1/4 cup coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that enhances the fruit’s flavors without overpowering.
1/4 cup water: Helps to gently simmer the fruit, ensuring it softens evenly and blends smoothly.
Lemon zest and juice: About 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, fresh kick that balances sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Offers warm, comforting notes that deepen the flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon pink Himalayan sea salt: Just a pinch to elevate the natural sweetness and add depth.

How to Make Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples

The first step is to peel each apple, quarter it, remove the core, and then dice the fruit into chunks. This prepping stage is important because the apples need to cook evenly and soften just right without turning into a mushy mess.

Step 2: Rinse the Apples

Pop the diced apples into a colander and give them a rinse under cold water. This ensures any remaining dirt or residues are washed away, keeping your applesauce fresh and clean-tasting.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Place the prepared apples into a large 6-quart Dutch oven or pot. Add in the frozen wild blueberries, coconut sugar, water, lemon zest and juice, vanilla, and sea salt. Give everything a good stir so the flavors start mingling even before the heat is on.

Step 4: Simmer Until Soft

Set your pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. Quickly cover it, turn the heat down to medium-low, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes until the apples are incredibly soft and ready to be mashed.

Step 5: Puree and Adjust Consistency

After cooking, carefully remove any lemon peels. Then use an immersion blender to purée the applesauce to your preferred smoothness. If it feels too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired texture. For a thinner sauce that’s too watery, simmer uncovered a bit longer on medium-low heat to thicken it up.

Step 6: Jar and Cool

Once the Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce is perfect, spoon it into clean mason jars. Let it cool completely in the fridge before storing or canning. This method locks in freshness and flavor for whenever you’re ready to enjoy it.

How to Serve Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted cinnamon or a few fresh blueberries on top can add a lovely finishing touch. A dollop of Greek yogurt transforms it into a creamy treat that is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Side Dishes

This applesauce shines alongside pork chops or roasted chicken, cutting through the richness with a fruity, slightly tart contrast. It’s also wonderful as a side to oatmeal or paired with a warm slice of toasted bread or scone.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce in parfait glasses with granola and whipped cream for an elegant dessert. Or swirl it into pancake or muffin batter for an unexpected, fruity surprise that brightens your morning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Store it in airtight containers to preserve the fresh, bright flavors and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

This applesauce freezes beautifully for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Warm your applesauce gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overheating to preserve the fresh flavors and smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh blueberries work just as well and bring a wonderful burst of freshness. If they aren’t in season, frozen blueberries are a perfect substitute and conveniently available year-round.

Is coconut sugar necessary, or can I use another sweetener?

Coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel note, but you can swap it for brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey to suit your taste or dietary needs. Just remember to adjust quantities to keep the balance right.

How smooth should the applesauce be?

That’s entirely up to you! Some prefer a creamy, completely smooth sauce, while others love a bit of texture with small chunks. Use the immersion blender accordingly to get your perfect consistency.

Can I can this Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce for long-term storage?

Yes, this applesauce is ideal for water bath canning, which allows you to store it safely up to a year. Just follow standard canning procedures for best results.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Choose sweet-tart apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during cooking and provide a balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

Final Thoughts

Making this Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce has been such a joyful experience, resulting in a versatile, delicious staple worth keeping on hand. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a personal favorite to brighten breakfasts, snacks, and meals alike. I hope you enjoy every spoonful and find your own ways to share this fantastic blend of flavors with those you love.

Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 27 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: About 6 cups (approximately 4–5 half-pint jars) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This homemade Blueberry Vanilla Applesauce is a delightful blend of sweet apples and tangy wild blueberries, enhanced with warm vanilla and fresh lemon zest. Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and lightly salted with pink Himalayan sea salt, this applesauce offers a perfectly balanced flavor perfect for snacking, desserts, or as a versatile condiment.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

4 lb apples, peeled, quartered, and diced
3 cups frozen wild blueberries
1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp lemon juice)

Sweetener and Flavorings

1/4 cup coconut sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Liquids and Seasoning

1/4 cup water
1/4 tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel each apple, then quarter, core, and dice them into chunks. This ensures even cooking and a smooth texture in the final applesauce.
Rinse the Apples: Place the diced apples in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove any residues or dirt, then drain well.
Combine Ingredients: In a large 6-quart Dutch oven or pot, add the prepared apples, frozen wild blueberries, coconut sugar, water, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and pink Himalayan sea salt. Stir all ingredients together to combine evenly.
Cook the Fruit Mixture: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the apples are very soft and can be easily mashed with a fork.
Puree the Applesauce: Remove any lemon peels if present. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until the desired texture is reached. If too thin, simmer uncovered over medium-low heat until thickened.
Store the Applesauce: Portion the applesauce into clean mason jars. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. For longer preservation, process the jars using the water bath canning method. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or canned for at least one year.

Notes

Use a variety of sweet-tart apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a balanced flavor.
Frozen blueberries can be substituted with fresh ones when in season.
Adjust sweetness by increasing or reducing the coconut sugar based on taste preference.
Vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Ensure jars are sterilized thoroughly if you plan to can the applesauce for long-term storage.
For a chunkier texture, puree the applesauce less or mash manually with a fork instead of using a blender.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Sauce, Condiment, Snack
Method: Simmering, Pureeing
Cuisine: American