Peel, core, and cut apples into small chunks.

Combine the unsweetened apple juice, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a large pot. Stir in the sliced apples until coated. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Cool for 10 minutes.

Mash with a fork, potato masher, or immersion blender. Or allow the apples to cool completely and use a food processor, or in batches in a vented high-speed blender (leave the center cap off the lid and cover with a dish towel).