Applesauce with Dried Cranberries



2 1/4 pounds Large McIntosh apples-peeled, quartered and cored
2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
3 1 by 3 inch strips of lemon zest
1/2 cup Sugar
1/2 cup Sparking apple cider
1/2 cup Dried cranberries

1. In a large saucepan, bring the apples, lemon juice and zest, sugar, sparkling cider and cranberries to a boil. Cover and simmer over moderately low heat until the apples soften, 20 minutes; stir to break up the apples slightly. Transfer to a bowl; discard the lemon zest. Serve warm or at room temperature.