Easiest Microwave Applesauce for One (or one and a half)

That one bruised apple

Around here, there is always at least one apple that has been thrown or dropped or gnawed on, that you don't want to toss out, but can't quite present it as a lovely specimen of fruit, either.  I almost called this "That One Bruised Apple Applesauce" because that's the true origination of this recipe.  That, and on PBS Kids several times this week Sid the Science Kid was learning about "change" and "irreversible change"--for example, when you cook an apple, you can't change it back to a raw apple.  Like when you make applesauce. 

So, guess who suddenly craved applesauce after watching Sid?  Yep, and Lizzie thought it was a great idea, too.

Total time: 5 minutes.
Cleanup requirements: virtually nothing to clean up
Difficulty level: if you can nuke it, you can make this

Well, you peel the apple.  The easiest way is to lob off the top and bottom, then slice down the sides.

Then you cube it, so each piece is approximately the same size - I did dice-sized cubes.  Throw the cubes in a microwave-safe bowl.

Then you add a dribble of water.  I've done this with and without water, and it works out about the same either way.

Put it in the microwave for 2 minutes on high.

(Or 1:54 minutes, but that's up to you.)

 (Actually, if you use more than one apple, or if it's a big baking apple, like a Granny Smith, for instance, you may need to let it cook a little longer.)

While you wait for the microwave to ding, sing a silly song.  (optional)

Mash the cooked apple cubes with a fork, and add a dash of cinnamon. 

 

Once it's cool enough to handle, serve at once to your young scientist.

Enjoy!