Chunky Applesauce 4 lbs organic or very well washed apples, peeled and cored 1/4 cup water ut apples into 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large saucepan with the water; simmer, covered, until tender, about 25 minutes. Applesauce will keep refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen in single portion, air tight containers for 4 months.