8 Apples (About 4 lb.), peeled, cored, and chopped

2 C. fresh Cranberries, cleaned and picked over

1 C. Granulated Sugar

1/2 C. Apple Juice

2 3-inch Cinnamon Sticks

2 3-inch strips of Lemon Zest (rind)

4 T. Butter

 

In a heavy saucepan over a moderate heat, cook the apples, cranberries, sugar, apple juice, cinnamon sticks, and the lemon peel, stirring frequently for about 20 minutes, or until the apples are very soft. Discard the cinnamon sticks and the lemon peel. Force the apple mixture through the medium disk of a food mill into a bowl, or process in a food processor or blender in small batches to your desired consistency, making sure to stir in a bit of the butter with each batch. Serve the applesauce warm or chilled. The applesauce keeps, covered and chilled, for a week, so feel free to prepare the cranberry applesauce in advance of your holiday meal.