| 2 1/4 pounds | Large McIntosh apples-peeled, quartered and cored |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh lemon juice |
| 3 | 1 by 3 inch strips of lemon zest |
| 1/2 cup | Sugar |
| 1/2 cup | Sparking apple cider |
| 1/2 cup | Dried cranberries |
In a large saucepan, bring the apples, lemon juice and zest, sugar, sparkling cider and cranberries to a boil. Cover and simmer over moderately low heat until the apples soften, 20 minutes; stir to break up the apples slightly. Transfer to a bowl; discard the lemon zest. Serve warm or at room temperature
The applesauce can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Bonus ingredient:
Cranberries are a functional food that offer health benefits beyond the usual nutrients. See Nutrition News for more information.