Red Hot Applesauce

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Red Hot Applesauce is a make-ahead, cinnamon-spiced apple side that's festive and nostalgic, but simple enough for everyday meals.

Jello Applesauce in wine glass with whipped cream.

Red Hot Cinnamon Applesauce

Growing up, I lived near an apple orchard in Southwest Missouri. My neighbor lady, Mrs. Walters, used delicious Jonathan apples to create perfect spiced apples each Christmas.

She would take the little red beauties to the VFW Auxiliary meeting. Sometimes, though, I would have good timing and would drop by on my bike, just in time to get a little bowl full.

This quick Red Hot Applesauce recipe brings back all the feels of the love I had for my sweet neighbor and the spiced apples she made.

Mrs. Walters is long passed, but if she were still with us, I betcha she would have taken this recipe to the VFW!

Ingredients

Boiling water--Make sure it's actually boiling before adding the Jello powder. Otherwise, it won't dissolve.
Red Hot Candies or Cinnamon Imperials--this cinnamon flavor candy can be hard to find outside of the Christmas season. So I always buy an extra bag to keep on hand.
A small Box of Cherry flavored Jello--Raspberry Jello would be delicious, too.
Applesauce-sweetened or unsweetened, your choice.

Top Tip

Cinnamon Red Hot candies can be hard to find in some areas, so stock up when you see them. They are easiest to find around Christmas time.

Top Tip

Avoid using a whisk to stir as this incorporates air into your Jello and can create a weird, bubbly film as it sets up.

Use a spoon to stir, instead.

Instructions

Pour water and Cinnamon Red Hot Cinnamon Candy into a small saucepan. Constantly stir until the water is boiling.
Add Jello to boiling water. Stir until Jello is completely dissolved using a spoon. Approximately 2 minutes.
Stir in the applesauce until well combined. Transfer to a serving dish, if desired.
Lastly, cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until set. About 4-6 hours (or overnight).

Pouring applesauce mixture into serving bowl.

FAQ

Should I Use Sweetened Applesauce or Unsweetened Applesauce?

I choose to use unsweetened applesauce for my family as I find the sugar in the Jello and Cinnamon Red Hot candy is plenty.

Can I Use Homemade Applesauce ?

Homemade or Cinnamon applesauce will work just fine here.

Can I Add Other Fruits to Jello?

Applesauce works great as a stir-in here, but keep in mind that fresh mango, guava, kiwi, figs, papaya, ginger, and pineapple are just a few fruits that contain enzymes that prevent Jello from properly setting.

Canned fruits can be used because the pasteurization process in canning destroys the enzymes.

Do I Add the Second Cup of Water as the Box Says?

Ignore all box directions when making this recipe. Because applesauce has water in it, you do not add the second cup of water as directed on the box.

Serving Red Hot Applesauce

Kids and adults love to feel special. Make this simple dish feel special by pouring the mixture into

champagne flutes
wine glasses
jelly jars
ramekins
Lunch bucket addition-pour the mixture into small, lidded containers to pack in your lunch. Cheaper and healthier than those little cups at the store. Plus, no container to throw in the trash!
Fancy it up with a dollop of Cool Whip, spray whipped topping, or try making homemade whipped cream for extra decadence.

Related Recipes

Lovin' Jello? Try our all these Jello beauties!

Did You Try this Recipe?

Lastly, if you made Red Hot Applesauce following this recipe, please let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment and/or giving a rating!

I love hearing from you! I'll do my best to respond to each comment.

And of course, if you do make this recipe, tag me on Instagram! Seeing your photos is my favorite thing!

Food Safety

Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
Wash hands before cooking
Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
Never leave cooking food unattended

Chuckie Hessong