Mrs. Nye’s Christmas Applesauce

Mrs. Nye’s “Christmas” Applesauce

Mrs. Nye gave me some applesauce once to try and I loved it.  It was pink and slightly sweet with a hint of cinnamon.  I asked her what kind of apples she used and for the recipe; she couldn’t remember what kind of apple she used so she brought one to me and told me to ask at the farmer’s market where she bought them!  Turns out they were Idareds and her secret ingredient was Red Hots candies.  I made this while my friend, Wendy, was visiting during the fall of 2012 and she remarked that it reminded her of Christmas—the slightly red color and hint of cinnamon sweetness from the Red Hots.

1 peck of Idared apples (about 15-20)

2 tbsp Red Hots candies

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

Core the apples, cut into wedges, then half them.  Do not peel.  Divide apples into two large stockpots, add a little water and bring to a boil.  Once the apples start to soften, stir to begin mixing with a spoon.  Add 1 tbsp Red Hots to each pot.

Once apples are very soft, transfer in batches into a food mill and process.  Discard skins.  Combine both into one pot, add 1 tsp cinnamon and 2 tbsp sugar.

Makes about 8 wide-mouth pint jars (for canning).