Applesauce

Unopened jars are shelf-stable until opened. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 7-10 days. Homemade applesauce should be refrigerated immediately and used within a week. Freeze in portions for longer storage.

Use unsweetened applesauce in baking as a substitute for oil or butter to reduce fat content

Choose unsweetened varieties to control sugar levels in recipes

Warm applesauce with cinnamon makes a quick, comforting side dish for pork chops

Add applesauce to oatmeal or yogurt for natural sweetness and extra fiber

Pork chops and roasted pork

Potato pancakes (latkes)

Oatmeal and breakfast grains

Vanilla ice cream

Cinnamon and nutmeg

Yogurt parfaits

Using sweetened applesauce in baking recipes that call for unsweetened, resulting in overly sweet baked goods

Substituting applesauce 1:1 for all the fat in a recipe, which can make baked goods gummy or dense

Storing opened jars at room temperature, leading to quick spoilage