Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce is a classic accompaniment to roast pork or any dish that calls for a touch of sweet, tangy flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this apple sauce is beautifully smooth, bursting with apple flavor, and perfectly balanced with a hint of sugar and lemon. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
What Is Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce?
Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce is a smooth, homemade sauce made by gently cooking apples with a touch of sugar, water, and lemon juice. It’s traditionally served alongside roast pork, but it also works wonderfully with pancakes, desserts, or as a simple snack. The recipe highlights the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples, creating a perfectly balanced sauce.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Perfect for savory dishes, desserts, or as a standalone treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be stored in the fridge or freezer for future use.
- Natural Flavors: Uses fresh apples and minimal sugar for a wholesome taste.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce
- 500g cooking apples (such as Bramley) – Perfect for a soft, smooth texture.
- 2 tbsp caster sugar – Adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the apples.
- 2 tbsp water – Helps soften the apples during cooking.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Enhances the tartness and prevents browning.
Equipment Needed
- Peeler and knife – For preparing the apples.
- Medium saucepan – For cooking the apple sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the mixture.
- Blender or potato masher (optional) – For a smoother texture.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop the cooking apples into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice. Cover and cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and breaking down.
Step 3: Sweeten the Sauce
Stir in the caster sugar and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve fully. Taste the sauce and adjust the sugar if needed.
Step 4: Blend or Mash (Optional)
For a smooth apple sauce, blend the mixture using a blender or immersion blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the apples with a potato masher or fork.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the apple sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature depending on your preference.
What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce
- Roast Pork: A classic pairing that enhances the savory flavors.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Adds a fruity sweetness to breakfast dishes.
- Yogurt: Stir into plain yogurt for a natural sweetener.
- Cheese Boards: Complements sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie.
- Desserts: Use as a topping for ice cream, cakes, or crumbles.
Expert Tips for the Best Apple Sauce
- Choose the Right Apples: Cooking apples like Bramley breaks down easily for a smooth texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust sugar based on the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Add Cinnamon: For a warm, spiced flavor, stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon.
- Keep It Chunky or Smooth: Customize the texture to your liking by blending or mashing.
- Prevent Browning: Use lemon juice to keep the apples from oxidizing during preparation.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce
- Spiced Apple Sauce: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a festive twist.
- Vanilla Apple Sauce: Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
- Apple and Pear Sauce: Mix apples with pears for a sweeter, smoother sauce.
- No-Sugar Apple Sauce: Omit the sugar for a naturally sweet version, especially if using sweeter apples.
- Herbed Apple Sauce: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a savory touch.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
- Reheat Gently: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce Healthier?
- Reduce or Skip the Sugar: Use naturally sweet apples to eliminate the need for sugar.
- Add More Fruit: Include pears, berries, or plums for added nutrients and natural sweetness.
- Limit the Butter (if added): Avoid adding butter for a leaner sauce.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Can I Use Eating Apples Instead of Cooking Apples for Apple Sauce?
Yes, you can use eating apples, but the sauce may be sweeter and less tart than when made with cooked apples. Adjust the sugar accordingly or skip it altogether if the apples are naturally sweet.
How Do I Make Apple Sauce Thicker?
To make apple sauce thicker, cook it uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing the liquid to evaporate. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For an even thicker texture, you can blend it until smooth.
Can I Freeze Apple Sauce?
Yes, apple sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before use.
How Long Does Homemade Apple Sauce Last?
Homemade apple sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers or freezer-safe bags.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce is a simple yet delicious addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Its smooth, tangy flavor makes it an ideal complement to roast pork or a delightful topping for breakfast and desserts. With minimal ingredients and effort, this apple sauce is a versatile recipe you’ll find yourself making time and time again!
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- Mary Berry Christmas Pavlova
- Mary Berry Christmas Pudding
Mary Berry Apple Sauce
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Description
Mary Berry’s Apple Sauce is a smooth, homemade sauce made by gently cooking apples with a touch of sugar, water, and lemon juice. It’s traditionally served alongside roast pork, but it also works wonderfully with pancakes, desserts, or as a simple snack. The recipe highlights the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples, creating a perfectly balanced sauce.
Ingredients
- 500g cooking apples (such as Bramley) – Perfect for a soft, smooth texture.
- 2 tbsp caster sugar – Adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the apples.
- 2 tbsp water – Helps soften the apples during cooking.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Enhances the tartness and prevents browning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop the cooking apples into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice. Cover and cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and breaking down.
Step 3: Sweeten the Sauce
Stir in the caster sugar and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve fully. Taste the sauce and adjust the sugar if needed.
Step 4: Blend or Mash (Optional)
For a smooth apple sauce, blend the mixture using a blender or immersion blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the apples with a potato masher or fork.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the apple sauce cool to room temperature before serving. It can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature depending on your preference.
