Organic Apple Puree Recipe – Easy Homemade Baby Food

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Organic Apple Puree Recipe – Easy Homemade Baby Food

Hey everyone! If you’re like me, you want the very best for your little one. And honestly, nothing beats knowing exactly what’s going into their tiny tummies. I first started making my own baby food when my niece was born, and it’s been a joy ever since! This organic apple puree is one of the first recipes I ever made – it’s super simple, naturally sweet, and a fantastic first food for your baby. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple puree is a winner for so many reasons. It’s quick – ready in under 10 minutes! It uses just two ingredients, making it incredibly easy on busy parents. Plus, homemade baby food lets you control the quality of ingredients, ensuring your baby gets only the best. It’s a gentle introduction to solid foods, and babies almost always love the naturally sweet taste of apples.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• ½ organic apple
• Water, as needed

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec!

Organic Apples: Choosing the Right Variety

Using organic apples is really important, as babies are more sensitive to pesticides. I prefer using sweeter varieties like Royal Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for the puree. They naturally create a lovely, smooth texture. You can also use other varieties like Golden Delicious, but you might need a touch more water to get the right consistency.

Water: Importance of Quality

You’ll only need a tiny bit of water, but make sure it’s filtered! It doesn’t need to be fancy, just clean and safe for your little one. I always use the water from my filter jug.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some puree!

1. First, give your organic apple a good wash. Then, peel and core it. I find a simple vegetable peeler and an apple corer make this part a breeze.
2. Now, chop the apple into small chunks. This helps it cook evenly.
3. Time to cook! You can either boil or steam the apple chunks until they’re fork-tender – about 5 minutes. Steaming helps retain more nutrients, but boiling works just fine too. Just don’t overcook them, or they’ll lose their goodness.
4. Once cooked, let the apples cool down completely. This is important before blending!
5. Finally, blend the apples into a smooth puree. If you steamed the apples, you might need to add a little water to help it blend. I use my trusty food processor, but a blender works great too.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

For a very young baby (around 6 months), you want a super smooth puree with no lumps. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. As your baby gets older, you can leave it a little chunkier.

Preventing Browning

Apples tend to brown quickly once cut. To prevent this, you can add a tiny squeeze of lemon juice to the puree (for babies over 6 months). It won’t affect the taste, and it’ll keep the puree looking fresh.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level: Adding a Touch of Cinnamon or Nutmeg (For Older Babies)

Once your baby is a little older (around 8-9 months), you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming flavour. My friend swears by a tiny dash of cardamom – it’s delicious! Start with a very small amount, as babies’ palates are sensitive.

Storage: Making Ahead & Freezing Options

Life with a baby is busy, so making ahead is a lifesaver!

Storage Instructions

You can store the apple puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions

This puree is perfect as a first food, or as a side with other meals. I usually start with just a teaspoon or two, and gradually increase the amount as my baby gets used to it.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is this apple puree suitable for 4-month-old babies?

Generally, yes! But always check with your pediatrician before introducing solids to your baby. They’ll be able to advise you on the best time to start and what foods are appropriate.

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties. Just remember that some apples are tarter than others, so you might need to adjust the amount of water accordingly.

How long can I store homemade apple puree?

In the fridge, it’s best to use it within 24 hours. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for up to 2 months. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.

What if my baby doesn’t like the puree?

Don’t worry! It’s perfectly normal for babies to be fussy. Try offering it again another time, or mix it with a fruit they already enjoy.

Can I add other fruits or vegetables to this apple puree?

Definitely! Once your baby is used to apple puree, you can try adding a little bit of pear, banana, or sweet potato. It’s a great way to introduce new flavours and textures.