Ingredients

• 4 pounds apples (about 10), peeled, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks (I like a combination of McIntosh and Golden Delicious)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• Dash cinnamon, for serving (optional)

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Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F
2. Place the apples in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Scatter the the brown sugar and chunks of butter evenly over top.
4. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the apples are very tender.
5. Mash the apples with a potato masher or fork.
6. Taste; if the applesauce is too tart, add more brown sugar little by little until the flavors are balanced.

Cook’s Note

• No two batches will ever be the same; the flavor will depend on the tartness of the apples you use.