This tangy-sweet applesauce blends ripe strawberries, tart rhubarb, and zesty orange for a vibrant, no-fuss dessert or topping. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or warm-weather traditions.
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 25 mins |
| Total Time | 35 mins |
| Servings | 4 cups |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
Why This Recipe Works
Strawberry rhubarb applesauce balances bold fruit flavors with a soothing texture. The orange zest and juice cut through the sweetness, while the rhubarb’s tartness creates contrast that feels refreshing. After simmering, the mixture thickens into a silky blend that coats spoonfuls of oats, yogurt, or pancakes.
I first made this with overripe strawberries from my garden, and the vibrant pink color became family’s favorite topping at weekend breakfasts. Using fresh rhubarb from the farmers’ market ensures peak tartness, but frozen works just as well in winter months.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sliced Strawberries | 1/2 cup | Frozen: thaw and drain well |
| Cold Water | 1 tbsp | Reserved for loosening mix |
| Diced Rhubarb | 1 cup | Frozen: no need to thaw |
| Golden Delicious Apples | 2 medium | Use Honeycrisp if firmer texture needed |
| Orange Zest | 1 tbsp | Grated using microplane |
| Orange Juice | 1/3 cup | Freshly squeezed is best |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup | Adjust to taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare Ingredients
Peel, core, and dice apples. Cut rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces
-
Cook Base
In large pot, combine apples, rhubarb, orange zest, juice, water. Stir in 1/8 cup sugar
-
Simmer
Cover pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low, simmer 15-18 minutes until tender
-
Add Strawberries
Stir in strawberries and remaining sugar. Cook 2-3 minutes until berries soften
-
Blend to Desired Consistency
Transfer to blender and puree. Add water as needed for thinner texture
Chef Tips for Perfect Results
- Use firm, unblemished rhubarb stalks without fibrous strings
- Adjust sugar incrementally – strawberries may add natural sweetness
- Blend iced applesauce for chilled dessert after refrigerating 2+ hours
- Stir mixture every 5 minutes during simmering to prevent sticking
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Causes rhubarb to collapse into bitter mass. Fix by simmering only 15-18 minutes
- Skipping water: Thick sauce can be loosened with 1-2 tbsp during blending
- Adding lemon juice: Orange juice already provides acidic balance needed
- Not peeling apples: Hey preserves keep texture but may need more cooking time
Variations and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution | Impact on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Orange juice | Lemon juice | Crisper, less floral brightness |
| Sugar | Maple syrup | Adds warm caramel notes |
| Golden Delicious | Fuji apples | Much sweeter profile |
| Rhubarb | Tart cherries | Creates cherry-apple stew |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
For family breakfasts: Spoon over Greek yogurt with granola. For brunch: Dollop on waffles with whipped cream. For dinners: Swirl into oatmeal with cinnamon. As dessert: Freeze into pops with strawberry halves. Festive options: Serve in mason jars at May/June get-togethers.
Storage and Reheating
| Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 5 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezing | 3 months | Pour into labeled freezer bags |
| Reheating | As needed | Warm over medium heat 3-4 minutes |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Sodium | 3mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried apples instead of fresh?
No – dried apples create candy-like texture. Soak to rehydrate if texture compromise acceptable.
How long should I simmer rhubarb?
15-18 minutes max to preserve color and structure. Check doneness by pressing a slice with fork.
What if mixture becomes too runny?
Cook uncovered 5 more minutes to reduce. Add 1 tbsp flour and stir until thickened.
Can I make this 2 days ahead?
Yes. Store refrigerator in airtight container. Flavor develops deeper after resting 12+ hours.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Ingredients contain no gluten. Use certified gluten-free sugar if necessary.
Conclusion
Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce transforms peak-season fruits into a versatile, crowd-pleasing treat. From breakfast boosts to dessert finale, this 35-minute recipe proves simplicity creates perfection. Heartwarming aroma, vibrant color, and balanced citrus-kissed sweetness make it a true summer staple.
Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Applesauce Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Peel, core, and dice apples. Cut rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces
- In a large pot, combine apples, rhubarb, orange zest, orange juice, and cold water. Stir in 1/8 cup sugar
- Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer 15-18 minutes until tender
- Stir in strawberries and remaining 1/8 cup sugar. Cook 2-3 minutes until berries soften
- Transfer to blender and puree. Add water as needed for desired consistency
Notes
Adjust sugar incrementally - strawberries add natural sweetness
Chill refrigerated applesauce for 2+ hours before blending for a cold dessert
Stir mixture every 5 minutes during simmering to prevent sticking
Common mistake: Overcooking rhubarb causes it to collapse into a mushy texture