Step 1 Combine the apples, sugar and water in a saucepan. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 8 minutes. Remove the lid and stir from the bottom to prevent sticking. If the apples are sticking, add 1 or 2 more tablespoons of water. Cover the saucepan and continue cooking until the apples start to fall apart, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking, another 7 to 12 minutes.
Step 2 Remove from the heat and mash the apples with a fork or potato masher. Taste the sweetness of the applesauce. Add an additional teaspoon or 2 of sugar as needed. Serve warm as a side dish or chilled as a dessert with cream if you like.