Applesauce - 6 cups

4          pound apples (Fuji and Gala work well), peeled, cored and cut                           into 1- to 2-inch pieces

¾         cup water

¼         cup fresh lemon juice

2          tablespoons to ¼ cup packed light brown sugar

2          cinnamon sticks

2          pinches freshly ground nutmeg

2          pinches ground cloves

            Pinch kosher salt

1          tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

Nutritional information per serving (1 cup): Calories 180 (21% from fat)
• carb. 48g • sugar 39 • pro. 1g • fat 0g • sat. fat 0g • chol. 0mg
• sod. 49mg • calc. 25mg • fiber 4g

1.
Put all of the ingredients, except for the butter, into a small to medium stockpot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium low.  Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender, about 45 minutes. 

2.
Remove from heat and remove the cinnamon sticks. If using, add the butter.

3.
Select High and blend, using a gentle up-and-down motion, until the ingredients are well combined and no large chunks remain, about 1 to 1½ minutes. Adjust blending time depending on desired consistency. 

4.
Taste and adjust seasoning and sweetness as desired.