Homemade applesauce can can serve as a substitute for oil or butter, or it can replace store-bought applesauce in many recipes. Typically, you can substitute your own applesauce at a 1:1 ratio, but if your applesauce has added sugar, then reduce the amount of sugar slightly in the recipe to account for the sweetness of the applesauce. Homemade applesauce can also have a different consistency than store-bought varieties. If it's too watery, then strain it or cook it down to achieve a thicker consistency.