Spiced chia applesauce that’s sweetened with fruit and thickened with chia seeds. Add dates for extra sweetness or keep it simple. Perfect for a snack or as part of apple crumble bars.
My fridge is currently full of applesauce from the many batches I tested over the weekend. I have to say, it was a good way to use up my 20lbs bag of apples – If you’re looking for more sugar-free apple recipes, I also love my sugar-free apple crisp and healthy caramel apple slices.
Like I said, I tried a few versions of this recipe over the weekend. First, I tried it sweetened with a few chopped Medjool dates. The dates soften when cooked with the apples, which makes them blend perfectly in the sauce. No chunks of dates, just a perfectly sweet chia applesauce. I then tried a version without the dates, which turned out great as well. Make it without the dates if you prefer a lightly sweet applesauce. I find that dates take this sauce to the next level. As for the spices, I tried a few variations as well. First, I tried it with a touch of cinnamon only. It was good, but then I tried it with pumpkin spice (!!!). That one was a winner! I like to add half pumpkin spice and half cinnamon. This way, the cinnamon is dominant, but you still get a touch of nutmeg, allspice, ginger and clove. I didn’t add much, but feel free to play with the spices. Add more or less to taste!
I used this recipe for homemade pumpkin spice, but you can certainly use store-bought.
To make the sauce, all you need to do is add your peeled, diced apples in a small saucepan, along with water, cinnamon, pumpkin spice and vanilla. I bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the chia seeds and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, the chia seeds should have absorbed the liquid and the sauce should be thick and chunky. Use a fork to mash some of the apples, leaving some chunks if preferred.
It doesn’t get much easier than that!
Eat this chia applesauce on its own as a snack or dessert or add it to oatmeal, parfaits, desserts and more… I highly recommend making a batch to use in these apple crumble bars.
And with that, I’ll leave you to the recipe. Enjoy!
If you make this spiced chia applesauce, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I love to hear from you guys. And of course, if you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram!
This may not be the most creative or interesting soup out there, but it's cozy,…
I've been making a version of this quick and easy tortilla pizza since my high-school…
This recipe was originally posted in 2017. It has since been updated to add a…
Here's a compilation of balanced vegan recipes that are perfect for meal prep. Each recipe…
This sweet recipe is perfect for Valentine's Day, Easter, Christmas or any occasion. It's also…
Here are 5 nutrition tips to improve your health without dieting. These are a registered…
View Comments
Why bother to peel? The skin is highly nutritious, adds color, & softens when cooked !
You don't need to if you don't want to! I often make it without peeling them too. Peeling simply results in a smoother sauce.
I had a big lunch, earlier, so was inspired to cook up a warm treat with one of my winter stored Ambrosia apples. I buy several bags in the Fall when prices are low just after harvest.
I just found your yummy recipe for Spicey Apples, and my kitchen smells so lovely as it simmered.
Wish I had some fresh whipping to put in too, but dairy and sugar free eating feels so very light and lovely a way to move into this new year. Healthy Foods. Healthy Happy man's, Healthy Planet, eh.
Thank you Jan! I'm so happy that you enjoyed the recipe. The lovely fall smell is another benefit of the recipe. :)