Chunky Applesauce

Ingredients

• 3 lbs. apples (such as a combination of McIntosh and Golden Delicious)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar(if desired)

Instructions

1. 1
   Peel, core, and cut apples into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. 2
   In a large saucepan bring apples and water to a boil. Add cinnamon stick; reduce heat. Cover; simmer, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender, 25 to 30 minutes.
3. 3
   Stir in lemon juice and 2 to 4 tablespoons sugar (if desired) until dissolved, about 1 minute. Discard cinnamon stick. Serve warm or chilled (refrigerate in an airtight container up to 1 week).