Description
This easy homemade crockpot applesauce recipe offers a simple, slow-cooked way to make fresh, naturally sweetened applesauce with a comforting hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a healthy snack or a versatile side dish, this applesauce requires minimal prep and cooks gently over four hours, allowing the apples to soften and develop a rich, smooth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 11-13 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into 8 pieces each)
- 1 2-inch cinnamon stick
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel all the apples, core each one, and slice them into 8 pieces. Using an apple corer/slicer tool can make this process quick and easy.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cinnamon stick into the crockpot, then add all the apple slices on top. Pour the 1/4 cup of water over the apples to provide moisture during cooking.
- Cook Apples: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on the low setting for 4 hours, allowing the apples to soften thoroughly.
- Mash Apples: After cooking, use a large wooden spoon to mash the apples directly in the crockpot until a sauce forms. For a smoother texture, transfer the applesauce to an immersion blender or regular blender and puree once cooled.
- Store and Serve: Serve the applesauce warm or cold. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- For extra smooth applesauce, blend after mashing once cooled.
- Use tart and sweet apple varieties combined for a balanced flavor (e.g., Granny Smith and Fuji).
- No added sugar is needed as the natural sweetness of the apples is enhanced by slow cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid slightly.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
