Yield: 4–6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4–8 hours
Total Time: About 5 hours (mostly chilling)
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Info: Gluten-free, refined sugar-free, low-fat
Main Ingredients: Applesauce, gelatin or agar-agar
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only two main ingredients needed: apples and a gelling agent.
Naturally sweet and low-calorie, making it ideal for clean eating or light desserts.
Customizable with spices like cinnamon or flavor extracts like vanilla.
Make-ahead friendly, perfect for prepping a day early.
No refined sugar (unless you want to add some).
Ingredients
Main:
600 grams applesauce (about 2 ½ cups or puree of 4 large apples)
20 grams unflavored gelatin powder (or substitute with 20 grams of agar-agar for a vegan option)
Optional Flavor Boosters:
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1–2 tsp natural sweetener (like honey, maple syrup, or stevia), if your apples aren’t sweet enough
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Apples (if using whole apples)
Skip this step if you’re using store-bought unsweetened applesauce.
Wash 4 large apples thoroughly.
Peel, core, and chop them into small cubes.
Add them to a saucepan with a splash of water (about ¼ cup) to prevent sticking.
Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes or until the apples are soft and beginning to break down.
Transfer to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth and lump-free.
You should get about 600 grams (2½ cups) of applesauce.
Tip: Use sweet apple varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious for a naturally sweet flavor without added sugar.
2. Heat the Applesauce
Transfer the applesauce to a medium saucepan.
Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once small bubbles begin to form at the edges, reduce the heat to low.
3. Incorporate the Gelatin or Agar-Agar
If using gelatin:
In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over 3–4 tablespoons of cold water. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes until spongy.
Then, add it to the warm applesauce, stirring constantly until completely dissolved.
If using agar-agar:
Mix the agar-agar with a few tablespoons of cold water.
Pour the mixture directly into the hot (but not boiling) applesauce.
Simmer for about 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly until fully dissolved. Agar-agar needs to boil briefly to activate.
Tip: Stir thoroughly to ensure the gelling agent dissolves fully — no lumps should remain.
4. Add Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
After the gelling agent is fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat.
Stir in optional flavorings:
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Extra sweetener if your apples are tart
Note: Taste the mixture now — this is your last chance to adjust sweetness and flavor.
5. Blend Again for Texture (Optional but Ideal)
Transfer the warm mixture to a blender or food processor and blend on high speed for 30–60 seconds.
This step incorporates air, giving the dessert a light, mousse-like texture and a paler, almost creamy appearance.
6. Mold and Chill
Pour the mixture into a ½-liter mold (approximately 2 cups capacity).
Use silicone molds for easier unmolding.
Rectangular molds or mini loaf pans work great.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set and firm.
7. Unmold with Ease
Run a thin knife around the edges of the mold.
If using a metal mold, wrap a warm towel around the outside or dip the mold quickly in hot water to loosen.
Gently invert onto a plate and shake softly until it releases.
8. Serve and Garnish
Slice and serve cold.
Sprinkle lightly with ground cinnamon for a warm contrast.
Optional toppings:
Thin apple slices
A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for crunch
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as the gelatin or agar structure may break down upon thawing.
Variations and Substitutions
Fruit Options: Substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even pureed mango.
For a creamier version: Add a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt before blending.
Herbal twist: Infuse the applesauce with fresh mint or basil leaves while heating, then strain before adding the gelatin.
Vegan: Use agar-agar instead of gelatin.
✅ Nutritional Benefits
Low in calories — great for a light dessert or snack
High in fiber (especially if you leave apple skins on)
Naturally sweetened — no refined sugar necessary
Digestive support thanks to pectin and gentle ingredients
Final Thoughts
This two-ingredient frozen apple dessert is simplicity at its best — healthy, satisfying, and beautifully customizable. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal, or a sweet treat for clean eating, this recipe fits the bill.
Try it with different spices or even swirl in a little yogurt for creaminess. Most importantly, have fun with it — and if you do try it, let me know how it turned out!
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