If you want to try your hand at making homemade applesauce, this Slow Cooker Applesauce recipe is a great place to start. It’s such an easy process that I can’t even recall the last time I reached for a jar at the store. Making applesauce in a slow cooker is all about simplicity and allows the natural flavors of the fruit to shine through. All you need are a few pounds of your favorite apples, a splash of water, a touch of lemon juice and a tad of salt. For an extra layer of flavor, I often toss in a couple of cinnamon sticks; they add a lovely warmth. No cinnamon sticks on hand? No worries! A teaspoon of ground cinnamon will work just as beautifully.
Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties or blend several for a more complex flavor profile. The end result is a delightful, homemade applesauce that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Enjoy the process!
To make the Slow Cooker Applesauce, you will need the following ingredients:
Peel and core the apples, then chop them into 1- to 2-inch pieces, depending on how chunky you like your applesauce.
Put the chopped apples in a 5-quart or larger slow cooker. Add ½ cup water, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon salt and stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on the High setting for 4 hours, stirring twice during the cooking process.
Remove the cinnamon sticks. For a chunky applesauce, mash the cooked apples with a masher. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to purée the apples until smooth.
Allow the applesauce to cool to room temperature. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
This delightful Slow Cooker Applesauce recipe is a beloved fall staple in my household! It's incredibly easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and a healthier choice than any store-bought alternative. Try this recipe, and share it using the hashtag #cookmerecipes or by tagging @cookmerecipes on Instagram! We love seeing what you’ve made!
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