Applesauce With Lavender: Aromatic Comfort Food

The scent of apples cooking on the stovetop always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She wasn’t much of a baker, but her applesauce was legendary. The simple sweetness, the warm spices…it was pure comfort in a bowl. While I cherish those memories, I also love to experiment with flavors. One day, while tending my herb garden, the thought struck me: why not pair the familiar apple with the unexpected floral notes of lavender? The result was nothing short of magical – a sophisticated twist on a classic that still evokes the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes (Stovetop) / 3-4 hours (Crock Pot)
• Total Time: 55 minutes (Stovetop) / 3-4 hours 15 minutes (Crock Pot)
• Servings: Variable, approx. 4 cups
• Yield: Approx. 4 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Vegan (depending on sweetener)

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs apples, cored, seeded (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
• 1-2 tablespoons dried lavender, crushed to release flavor (see *NOTE below)
• ½ vanilla bean, sliced down the side to release flavor
• ¼ cup lemon juice or ¼ cup apple juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest or 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons honey (or ¼ cup raw sugar)
• 1 tablespoon butter (can substitute with vegan butter or coconut oil)

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan or slow cooker (crock pot)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Potato masher or immersion blender

Instructions

This recipe can be prepared on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Both methods yield delicious results, offering flexibility based on your time and preference.

NOTE: Begin by using 1 tablespoon of dried lavender. After the applesauce is cooked, taste and add more if desired. Another option is to use ½ – 1 teaspoon of fresh lavender flowers instead of dried. Be mindful when using fresh lavender as the flavor can be more potent.

Stovetop Directions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Cut the apples into 2-inch chunks. Don’t worry too much about uniformity; they will soften as they cook.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, dried lavender, vanilla bean (sliced open to expose the seeds), lemon juice (or apple juice), orange zest (or lemon zest), honey (or raw sugar), and butter.

3. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer until the apples are softened. This usually takes about 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Remove Vanilla Bean: Once the apples are tender, remove the vanilla bean pod.

5. Puree to Desired Consistency: Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, puree the apple mixture to your desired consistency. For a smoother applesauce, use the immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, the potato masher is perfect.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the applesauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more lavender for a stronger floral note, more lemon juice for a tangier flavor, or more honey (or sugar) for added sweetness.

7. Serve: Serve the applesauce warm or chilled.

Crock Pot Directions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Cut the apples into 2-inch chunks.

2. Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, combine the chopped apples, dried lavender, vanilla bean (sliced open), lemon juice (or apple juice), orange zest (or lemon zest), honey (or raw sugar), and butter.

3. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook the apple mixture on LOW for 3-4 hours, or until the apples are soft enough to puree. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check periodically.

4. Remove Vanilla Bean: Once the apples are tender, remove the vanilla bean pod.

5. Puree to Desired Consistency: Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, puree the apple mixture to your desired consistency.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve: Serve warm or chilled.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Apple Selection: The type of apples you use will significantly impact the flavor of your applesauce. A mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, works well. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
• Lavender Intensity: Be mindful of the amount of lavender you use. Too much can make the applesauce taste soapy. Start with less and add more to taste. High-quality culinary lavender is essential for the best flavor.
• Vanilla Bean Substitute: If you don’t have a vanilla bean, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add it after cooking, just before pureeing.
• Spice It Up: For a warmer, more complex flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger along with the other ingredients.
• Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of honey (or sugar) to your liking. Taste the applesauce before pureeing and add more if needed.
• Texture Perfection: If your applesauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add a splash of apple juice or water.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Applesauce with lavender is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm as a comforting dessert, chilled as a refreshing snack, or as a side dish with pork or poultry. It’s also delicious spooned over yogurt or granola for breakfast.

• Serving Suggestions: Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender or a dollop of whipped cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option) for an elegant presentation.
• Storage: Store leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Applesauce freezes well. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (estimated)	% Daily Value (estimated)
Calories	153 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	3.2g	4%
Saturated Fat	1.9g	9%
Cholesterol	7.6mg	2%
Sodium	22.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	33.9g	11%
Dietary Fiber	4.2g	16%
Sugars	27.6g	N/A
Protein	0.6g	1%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warming spice blend.
• Berry Boost: Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the applesauce while cooking for added flavor and antioxidants.
• Maple Sweetness: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile and a vegan option.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan and dairy-free version.
• Citrus Zing: Experiment with different citrus zests, such as lime or grapefruit, for a unique twist.
• Apple Varieties: Use a single type of apple or a combination for a more complex flavor. Consider using Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can! Use about ½ – 1 teaspoon of fresh lavender flowers. Be mindful that fresh lavender can have a more potent flavor than dried, so start with less and add more to taste.

Q: How do I prevent the applesauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
A: Stir the applesauce occasionally, especially while it’s simmering on the stovetop. This will prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or your preferred sugar substitute. Adjust the amount to your desired level of sweetness.

Q: Is it necessary to peel the apples?
A: No, it’s not necessary to peel the apples. The peels will soften during cooking and add fiber to the applesauce. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them beforehand.

Q: How long does homemade applesauce last?
A: Homemade applesauce will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This applesauce with lavender is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore flavors and create memories. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties, spices, or citrus zests to make it your own. Whether you serve it warm on a chilly evening or chilled as a refreshing snack, this applesauce is sure to delight. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Perhaps pair it with a crispy roasted chicken or a slice of warm cornbread for a truly comforting meal. Happy cooking!