There is something so comforting about a simple, fruit-forward snack that isn't loaded with refined sugars. I recently found myself craving a healthy treat that would satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt, which led me to whip up this incredibly smooth Apple and Pear Sauce. I absolutely love using Granny Smith apples for that subtle tartness; it cuts right through the natural sweetness of the ripe pears and the warmth of the cinnamon. It’s effortless to make, perfectly Paleo-friendly, and honestly, spoonfuls of this homemade sauce disappear from my fridge faster than I can make it!
Ingredients
- 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced (approx. 24 oz (680g))
- 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced (approx. 24 oz (680g))
- 0.25 cup water (2 oz (60g))
- 1 lemon, juiced (approx. 1.5 fl oz (45g))
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (0.18 oz (5g))
Instructions
- Place the 24 oz (680g) of diced apples, 24 oz (680g) of diced pears, 0.25 cup (60g) of water, fresh lemon juice, and 2 tsp (5g) of ground cinnamon into a medium-size saucepan over medium-high heat, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture, keeping the pot covered, for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until the apples and pears are completely soft and tender.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and use an immersion blender, a regular blender, or a food processor to carefully puree the mixture until it is perfectly smooth and no lumps remain.
- Transfer the sauce to a suitable container and place it in the refrigerator or the freezer to cool down, ensuring you do not let the Apple and Pear Sauce freeze completely; serve chilled.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 0.5 cup)
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Total Fat: 0.2g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients and an 8-serving yield. Figures may vary depending on the specific size of fruits used.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Ripe Pears: Since this recipe relies entirely on fruit for sweetness, make sure your pears are ripe and slightly soft to the touch. The riper the pear, the naturally sweeter your sauce will be, eliminating the need for any added sweeteners.
- Don't Skip the Acid: The lemon juice isn't just there for flavor; it acts as a preservative to keep the sauce from turning brown (oxidizing) and provides a necessary "bright" acidity to balance the earthy sweetness of the cooked pears.
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a rustic, chunkier sauce, skip the blender and use a potato masher instead. For a silky, baby-food consistency, the immersion blender is your best friend.
- Peel for Smoothness: While apple and pear skins hold a lot of nutrients, leaving them on will result in a gritty texture even after blending. For that classic, smooth sauce mouthfeel, take the time to peel them thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze Apple and Pear Sauce? Yes, this sauce freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Do I have to use Granny Smith apples? Not necessarily, but they are recommended. Granny Smith apples offer a tart, acidic profile that contrasts perfectly with the mild sweetness of the pears. If you use a sweeter apple like Fuji or Gala, the final sauce might be very sweet, so you may want to increase the lemon juice slightly.
Is this recipe Paleo and Whole30 compliant? Yes, this Apple and Pear Sauce is 100% Paleo, Whole30, and Vegan friendly. It contains no added sugars, dairy, or grains, relying solely on the natural sugars found in the fruit.
How long does homemade fruit sauce last in the fridge? When stored in an airtight container, this sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days. If you see any signs of mold or if it develops an off smell, discard it immediately.
Making your own fruit sauce is such a rewarding yet simple kitchen project, and once you taste the fresh difference, you'll never go back to the store-bought jars. Whether you enjoy this Apple and Pear Sauce as a light afternoon snack, a healthy dessert, or a topping for your morning porridge, it’s sure to become a household staple. Give this recipe a try this week, and don't forget to leave a star rating and comment below to let me know how you liked it!
