Makes 4 cups / 50 calories per 1/2 cup serving

8-10 fresh apples
1 Tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp. ground ginger

Dice and core apples. Place apple pieces in a microwave-safe container (you may have to work in batches). Cook apples on high power for 5 minutes; stir.

Pour hot apple pieces and liquid into a colander or food mill placed over a saucepan. Press or churn apples pieces to separate the skins from the pulp. Over low heat, stir in the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Heat just until the sugar is dissolved. Now enjoy it while it's warm!

You also can sweeten this applesauce with maple syrup, honey, brown sugar, or apple juice concentrate. Or you may find that it doesn't need any sweetener at all. Especially if you start with a sweet apple variety. To freeze, before adding any spices, divide applesauce into small, plastic freezer-safe containers leaving 1/2" headspace. Top with lids and freeze. Before serving, thaw in the refrigerator for a day or two, season as desired, and enjoy!