Applesauce with Dried Cranberries

• FAST
• HEALTHY
• MAKE-AHEAD
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 2 1/4 pounds large McIntosh apples peeled, quartered and cored
2. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3. Three 1-by-3-inch strips of lemon zest
4. 1/2 cup sugar
5. 1/2 cup sparkling apple cider
6. 1/2 cup dried cranberries

1. 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.