Applesauce is a popular and versatile snack that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various recipes. But what if you have a large batch of homemade applesauce and you’re not sure if you can finish it all before it goes bad? Can you freeze applesauce to extend its shelf life? The answer is yes!
How much do people spend on food, on average?
I’m spending what I consider a very low amount for very good food. I feed 8 people (4 adults, 2 teens, 2 kids) healthy, mostly organic meals for about $100 a week.
I presently cook for 8 since my grown daughter and her fiance are living with us right now (so 4 adults, 2 teens and 2 children). I cook mostly organic meals, all non-GMO and do it for about $100 a week. If we had a smaller family or fewer adults and teens, I could do it for far less. That said, I work hard to feed my family this well on this little.
People kept asking my advice on cutting their grocery bills and eating healthy food, so I started a Facebook page called FYFO-100 (Feed Your Family Organic for $100 a week or less) and also began to share some advice on one of our family blogs, A Magical Life. I don’t post that often to it since I have a very busy life (especially right now with harvest season for a lot of foods), but I do try to share information to help others afford to feed their family healthy food for a lot less.
Here’s a graphic I made listing the ten ways most people can save the most on groceries. We do all of these, but even doing a couple of them will save a lot of money.
Some of those things won’t be options for some people, but at least a few of them should be options for people in any circumstance. And just doing a couple of them can slash your grocery bill dramatically.
This advice from the USDA 100 years ago is also still good advice:
Cook from scratch as much as you can. That can mean different things to different people and you can take it to a lot deeper levels than most people do these days. To some people, “from scratch” means opening a box and making it at home yourself. To others, it means mixing purchased ingredients to make “from scratch” even cheaper. For me, that means making my own ingredients a lot of the time (such as GF pasta, sauces, bread, etc. and even grinding my own flours in some cases).
Also, reconsider using the grocery store as your primary food source. Think back to the “old days” when it was considered normal to grow some of your family’s food in a garden, to gather wild foods, to have a weekly baking day, to have fruit trees in your yard, and so on. We also rely on a lot of non-traditional sources like taking part in Azure Standard food coop, buying “canning grade” seconds of produce from local farmers, gathering our own fruits (we put up about 75 quarts of canned pears and applesauce last year from apples and pears that people let us pick off their trees that they were going to let go to waste), and so on.
An added benefit to living this way is the food also just tastes so much better. Compare the taste of a back yard tomato to a supermarket one sometime and you’ll see they’re not even the same foods. And homemade versions of dishes are just so much better than the frozen or boxed stuff you get in a store.
Feeding my family well is part of my occupation as far as I’m concerned, and I devote a lot of time and energy to it. My oldest child is a cancer survivor and I’ve overcome some pretty serious illnesses through a healthy lifestyle, so providing my family with real, healthy, nourishing foods is not negotiable. We live on very little money but we eat well. Our basement shelves are full of home canned goods, our freezers are full of foods from our garden and the wild, and I employ lots of strategies like buying in bulk and shopping sales. A friend told me a few years ago that her teenage son said they were coming to get me if there was ever a zombie apocalypse “because Alicia can make delicious food from anything.” I took that as high praise! 🙂
For the record, my husband expends just as much energy in all of this as I do. He and my kids do a lot of the foraging (wild asparagus, elderberries, morel mushrooms, raspberries, ramps, you name it). He helps with the food prep and the cooking, and does most of the work with prepping foods we’re putting up (freezing, drying or canning). Our kids also help, and I’m glad they’re learning these skills for when they’re on their own — plus it’s just nice to do together. It’s a family affair that works really well for us.
Freezing applesauce is a simple and effective way to preserve it for later use. By freezing your homemade applesauce, you can ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for months. It’s a convenient option, especially if you have a surplus of applesauce or if you want to make a large batch ahead of time.
To freeze applesauce, start by transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some headspace in the containers as the applesauce will expand as it freezes. Label the containers with the date to keep track of when they were frozen. Place the containers in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely.
When you’re ready to use the frozen applesauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir to bring back its smooth texture. Frozen applesauce can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months, but for the best quality, it’s recommended to consume it within 3-4 months.
Can you freeze applesauce?
Yes, you can freeze applesauce! Freezing applesauce is a great way to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. Whether you have made a large batch of homemade applesauce or have leftover store-bought applesauce, freezing it can be a convenient option.
To freeze applesauce, start by transferring it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Make sure to leave some headspace as the applesauce will expand as it freezes. It is also a good idea to label the containers with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
When freezing applesauce, it is essential to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. You can do this by pressing the bags gently or using a vacuum sealer if available. Once the containers or bags are properly sealed, place them in the freezer.
Frozen applesauce can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. However, for the best quality, it is recommended to consume it within 3-4 months. Over time, the texture and taste of the applesauce may slightly change, but it should still be safe to eat.
When you are ready to use the frozen applesauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave on a low setting. Once thawed, give it a stir to restore its smooth consistency. You can enjoy the thawed applesauce as it is or use it in various recipes.
Freezing applesauce is a convenient way to preserve this delicious and nutritious treat. It allows you to enjoy the flavors of fresh apples throughout the year. So go ahead, freeze your applesauce and enjoy it whenever you crave its sweet and tangy taste!
Freezing Applesauce: What You Need to Know
When it comes to preserving your homemade applesauce, freezing is a great option. Freezing applesauce allows you to extend its shelf life and enjoy the delicious flavors of apples all year round. However, there are a few things you need to know before freezing your applesauce.
Firstly, it’s important to note that not all applesauce freezes well. The texture and consistency of the applesauce can change after being frozen, so it’s best to use applesauce that has a smoother consistency rather than chunky or lumpy. Additionally, make sure to use high-quality applesauce that is free from any additives or preservatives.
To freeze applesauce, you will need airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Start by portioning the applesauce into individual servings or the desired amount for future use. Then, transfer the applesauce into the containers, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Seal the containers tightly to prevent any air from entering.
It’s also helpful to label the containers with the date of freezing, as well as the contents, to keep track of its freshness. Applesauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months, but it’s best to consume it within 3-4 months for optimal flavor and quality.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen applesauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed container in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing. Avoid thawing the applesauce at room temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Once thawed, give the applesauce a good stir to restore its smooth consistency. If you find that the texture has changed slightly, you can blend it for a few seconds to achieve the desired consistency. The taste and flavor of the applesauce should remain intact after freezing.
In conclusion, freezing applesauce is a convenient way to preserve it for later use. By following these guidelines and using the proper storage containers, you can enjoy the taste of freshly made applesauce all year long. Whether you use it as a topping for pancakes or as a delicious snack, frozen applesauce is a versatile and tasty treat.
Why Freeze Applesauce?
Freezing applesauce is a great way to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. Whether you have made a large batch of homemade applesauce or have store-bought applesauce that you want to keep for longer, freezing is a simple and effective method to prevent spoilage and enjoy the goodness of applesauce for months to come.
One of the main reasons to freeze applesauce is to avoid waste. If you find yourself with a surplus of applesauce that you won’t be able to consume before it goes bad, freezing it is a smart solution. By freezing the applesauce, you can prevent it from spoiling and utilize it at a later time when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Freezing applesauce also allows you to have a ready-to-use ingredient on hand whenever you need it. Whether you want to use it in baking, cooking, or simply enjoy it as a snack, having frozen applesauce in your freezer provides convenience and saves you time. Instead of making applesauce from scratch every time you need it, you can defrost the frozen portion and use it directly in your recipes.
Additionally, freezing applesauce can help you take advantage of seasonal fruits. If you have access to fresh apples during the harvest season, you can make a large batch of applesauce and freeze it for later use. This way, you can enjoy the taste of ripe apples throughout the year, even when they are out of season.
When freezing applesauce, it is important to use proper storage containers or bags to maintain its quality. Make sure to leave some headspace in the container as applesauce tends to expand during freezing. It is recommended to label the containers with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
In conclusion, freezing applesauce is a practical way to prevent waste, have a readily available ingredient, and enjoy the taste of apples throughout the year. By following proper freezing techniques, you can ensure that your applesauce remains delicious and of high quality when thawed. So go ahead, freeze your applesauce and savor its deliciousness whenever you desire!
How to Freeze Applesauce
Freezing applesauce is a great way to preserve the taste and freshness of this delicious treat. Whether you have made a large batch of homemade applesauce or have store-bought applesauce that you want to keep for longer, freezing is a simple and effective method. Here are some steps to follow when freezing applesauce:
1. Prepare the applesauce: Start by making sure your applesauce is smooth and well-blended. If there are any chunks or uneven textures, consider blending it again or using a food processor to achieve a smoother consistency. This will help maintain the quality of the applesauce during freezing.
2. Choose freezer-safe containers: Select containers that are specifically designed for freezing. These can be plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids or freezer bags made of durable materials. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before filling them with applesauce.
3. Portion the applesauce: Divide the applesauce into smaller portions based on your needs. Freezing in smaller portions allows for easier thawing and prevents wastage. Consider using portion-sized containers or freezer bags to make it convenient for individual servings.
4. Label and date: To keep track of your frozen applesauce, label each container with the date of freezing. This will help you identify the freshness of the applesauce later on.
5. Freeze the applesauce: Place the filled containers in the freezer, making sure they are placed in a flat position to prevent leakage or spills. Leave some headspace in the containers to allow for expansion during freezing. For freezer bags, remove excess air before sealing.
6. Thawing and using frozen applesauce: When you’re ready to use the frozen applesauce, remove the desired portion from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Thawing slowly in the fridge helps maintain the taste and texture of the applesauce. Once thawed, give it a good stir before serving.
By following these steps, you can freeze applesauce and enjoy its delicious flavor even after a long time. Remember to use the frozen applesauce within a reasonable timeframe to maintain its quality and taste.
Can frozen applesauce be kept?
Yes, frozen applesauce can be kept for an extended period of time. Freezing is a great way to preserve homemade applesauce, allowing you to enjoy it even when apples are not in season. However, it is important to store frozen applesauce properly to maintain its quality and taste.
To freeze applesauce, make sure it is completely cooled before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the applesauce freezes. Label the containers with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
When it comes to storing frozen applesauce, it is recommended to keep it in the freezer for up to 6 months for the best quality. While it may still be safe to consume beyond that timeframe, the flavor and texture may start to deteriorate.
When you are ready to use the frozen applesauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave on a low setting. Give it a good stir before serving to ensure a smooth consistency.
It’s worth noting that freezing can slightly alter the texture of the applesauce, making it a bit softer than when it was fresh. However, the taste and nutritional value should remain intact.
In conclusion, freezing applesauce is a convenient way to store it for an extended period. By following proper storage techniques, you can enjoy the taste of homemade applesauce all year round.
How Long Can You Keep Frozen Applesauce?
When it comes to preserving homemade applesauce, freezing can be a convenient option. Freezing applesauce not only helps to extend its shelf life but also allows you to enjoy it throughout the year. However, it’s important to know how long you can keep frozen applesauce to ensure its quality and taste.
Frozen applesauce can be kept for up to 12 months if stored properly. To ensure the longevity of your frozen applesauce, it is crucial to use airtight containers or freezer bags. This will prevent the formation of ice crystals and maintain the texture and flavor of the applesauce.
When freezing applesauce, make sure to leave some headspace in the container as it expands during freezing. It is also recommended to label the containers with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness.
When you are ready to use the frozen applesauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing it at room temperature as it can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its smooth consistency.
It’s worth mentioning that the quality of the frozen applesauce may slightly deteriorate over time. While it will still be safe to consume after the recommended storage period, the texture and flavor may not be as fresh as when it was first frozen. Therefore, it is best to consume the frozen applesauce within the 12-month period for the best taste and quality.
In conclusion, frozen applesauce can be kept for up to 12 months if stored properly. By following the recommended storage guidelines and using airtight containers, you can enjoy the taste of homemade applesauce throughout the year. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator and consume it within the recommended storage period for the best experience.
Tips for Storing Frozen Applesauce
When it comes to preserving applesauce, freezing is a great option. Freezing applesauce can help extend its shelf life and allow you to enjoy it for a longer period of time. Here are some tips for storing frozen applesauce:
1. Choose the Right Containers:
When freezing applesauce, it is important to use the right containers. Opt for airtight containers or freezer bags that are specifically designed for freezing food. These containers will help prevent freezer burn and keep the applesauce fresh.
2. Portion Control:
Consider portioning the applesauce into smaller containers or bags. This will make it easier to defrost and use only the amount you need without thawing the entire batch.
3. Label and Date:
Always label your frozen applesauce containers with the date of freezing. This will help you keep track of its freshness and ensure that you use the oldest batch first.
4. Properly Seal:
Make sure to properly seal the containers or bags to prevent any air from entering. This will help maintain the quality of the applesauce and prevent freezer burn.
5. Store at the Right Temperature:
Set your freezer to a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below to ensure that the applesauce remains frozen and safe to eat for an extended period of time.
6. Stack Smartly:
If you have limited freezer space, stack your containers or bags of frozen applesauce in an organized manner. This will help maximize the available space and make it easier to find what you need later on.
7. Thawing and Using Frozen Applesauce:
When you are ready to use the frozen applesauce, simply transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, it can be used in various recipes or enjoyed on its own.
8. Check for Quality:
Before using the frozen applesauce, always check its quality. Look for any signs of freezer burn or unusual odors. If the applesauce appears to be in poor condition, it is best to discard it.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your frozen applesauce remains fresh and delicious for an extended period of time. Enjoy the convenience of having homemade applesauce available whenever you need it!
FAQ
How long can you keep Applesauce in the freezer?
When stored well in the freezer, homemade applesauce can last up to 12 months! On the other hand, store-bought applesauce can last up to 2 months in the freezer. The ideal temperature for freezing applesauce is 0 F. Once you’re done making the applesauce, leave it to cool at room temperature.
What to do with leftover applesauce?
Applesauce is a delicious method of cooking up your leftover apples. It tastes great on its own and even makes a great sauce to add to your roast pork on a Sunday. But, a little goes a long way, so what do you do with those leftovers? Can You Freeze Applesauce? Yes, you can freeze applesauce for up to 3 months.
How do you warm up frozen applesauce?
Another way is to place the applesauce in a bowl of cool to warm water while it is still in its jar or freezer bag. The water conducts heat, which will warm up the applesauce quicker. You can also try putting your frozen applesauce in a microwave for minute-long sessions, stirring the applesauce every time.
How much space do you need to store applesauce?
Leave 1 inch (2.5 cm) of head space if you’re using a firm container. During freezer storage, your applesauce will grow hard and stick to the edges of your container. This can make opening your jar, tub, or other storage device difficult since your sauce will hold the lid shut.
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