Calories in Applesauce, unsweetened
Cooked apples release pectin that gels naturally, making applesauce a built-in fat replacer in baking.
What makes applesauce so powerful?
The transformation of raw apples into applesauce is a study in plant cell wall chemistry. When apples are cooked, heat breaks down their rigid cellular structure, releasing pectin—a type of soluble fiber that naturally thickens the mixture into a smooth puree. Unsweetened applesauce retains the inherent malic acid of the fruit, which provides a tart counterbalance to the natural fructose released during the cooking process. A critical step in commercial and home preparation is the inhibition of enzymatic browning. When apple tissue is exposed to oxygen, the enzyme polyphenol oxidase reacts with phenolic compounds, turning the flesh brown. To prevent this, producers frequently add ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which acts as a reducing agent to intercept oxygen before it can react with the enzymes. This is why many unsweetened applesauces list vitamin C as an ingredient despite having no added sugar. The thermal processing also gelatinizes the apple's starches and softens the fiber, making it highly digestible and giving it a unique ability to retain moisture in baked goods.
Use unsweetened applesauce as a 1:1 substitute for oil or butter in muffins and quick breads to drastically reduce fat while keeping the crumb moist. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark pantry; once opened, refrigerate in an airtight container and consume within 7 to 10 days. For a satiating snack that balances blood sugar, pair it with a handful of roasted almonds or stir a spoonful into plain Greek yogurt to add natural sweetness and soluble fiber without a sugar crash.
Calories by Serving Size
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
How does Applesauce fit your daily goals?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Applesauce, unsweetened?
Applesauce, unsweetened contains 52 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (140g) provides 73 calories. It is a moderate-calorie food that can fit into most healthy diets.
How much protein does Applesauce, unsweetened have?
Applesauce, unsweetened provides 0.27g of protein per 100g, which is 1% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Applesauce, unsweetened?
Applesauce, unsweetened contains 12.3g of carbohydrates per 100g .
Is Applesauce, unsweetened good for weight loss?
Applesauce, unsweetened has 52 kcal per 100g, which is relatively moderate. It can fit into a weight-loss diet as long as portion sizes are managed.
How do I track Applesauce, unsweetened calories accurately?
The easiest way to track applesauce is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.