Help - how to make Apple paste?

[Viva_La_Revolution]

I made an awesome Apple Ring last week, the taste was perfect, but the filling gave me issues. Even chopped fine, the apples wouldn't stay put while I rolled it up, and they ended up globbed together too much in some spots, and none in others.

I want a filling that is thick and appley, and will stay in place a little better.

How do I make a thick apple paste? keep in mind that I've made jams and jellies, but not applesauce or apple butter yet. (both are on my to-learn list).
I have a teeny food processor, but prefer to do by hand. cook till mushy then mash and reduce?

[HopeHoops]

1. I've made applesauce (and canned it). It isn't that hard.

If you don't have an AppleMate, get one. It cores, peels, and spiral-slices all at the same time. Old gadget. It makes for uniform cooking time or dehydrating time for that matter. I like tart apples for applesauce and really all I do is boil them and keep topping off with microwaved boiling water as necessary. The thickness is a matter of time and patience. I don't spice mine, but that's a personal decision. If you want it really thick, just lower the heat to the lowest possible setting (gas stoves are better for this) and cover it. Stir once in a while. You won't need a food processor. It will end up smooth as silk.

As for using it as a filling, after it has cooled, refrigerate it for 24 hours or so and it will be a paste. I know because I let an applesauce go too long once - it was peanutbutter and apple paste sandwich time for weeks. Shit. Now I want some.

[grasswire]

2. if you are going to cook down apples, remember...

...that you don't need to add but a tiny bit of water to your pot. The apples generate a lot of juice as they break down. Just add a TINY bit to keep them from scorching at the beginning of your cook time.

[surrealAmerican]

3. I would add that, if you start them in the microwave, ...

... you don't need any water at all. Just put them in a covered microwaveable dish, cook until soft, and mash. If you want to cook them down more on the stove afterwards, you can.

[Viva_La_Revolution]

4. thanks all

I'll report back Saturday