Accidentally-on-Purpose Apple Sauce

It’s accidentally-on-purpose because I started out making one recipe, then deviated per normal and made my own variation.  Thanks to Ina Garten for getting me started, and luck for having this one work out.

• Juice of 2 oranges
• 3 lbs apples, cored and chopped (I think I used Jonathan apples for their sweet-tart balance)
• 1/4 c. dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon (I like the Saigon variety for its spiciness, and as always, please use fresh spices!)
• 4 TBS butter, cubed

Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Toss apple chunks in the orange juice, then transfer to baking dish.  Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon across the top.  Place butter cubes on top.  Cover tightly with lid or aluminum foil.

Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until apples are fork tender.

Let cool momentarily.  Whisk or mash until apples reach desired consistency.