Simple Crockpot Applesauce Recipe for Cozy Mornings (Print Version)
Craft a simple Crockpot Applesauce Recipe with warm spices. This slow-cooked applesauce is pure comfort, easy to make, and tastes like home.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 3 Hours minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Vegan
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
6-8 lbs apples (mixed varieties like Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith)
02 -
1/2 cup water or apple cider
→ Flavor Enhancers
03 -
2-3 cinnamon sticks
04 -
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
05 -
1 tbsp lemon juice
→ Optional Sweeteners
06 -
1/4 - 1/2 cup brown sugar
07 -
2 tbsp maple syrup
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, let's get those apples ready! I grab a big bowl and my trusty peeler. Wash all your apples really well, then peel, core, and chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Honestly, I don't get too precious about the size; they're all going to break down anyway. Just try to keep them somewhat uniform so they cook evenly. This is where I always make a mess, apple peels everywhere! But it’s part of the charm of making this Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe from scratch.
02 -
Now, toss all those glorious apple chunks into your slow cooker. Pour in the water or apple cider – just enough to cover the bottom, really. Then, tuck in your cinnamon sticks and sprinkle in the nutmeg. If you're using brown sugar or maple syrup, add it now. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is somewhat combined. I like to imagine the spices are getting to know the apples before they start their slow dance in the heat. Don't worry if it looks like a mountain; it'll cook down!
03 -
Pop the lid on your crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. I usually go for low if I'm leaving the house, because it’s so forgiving. The house will start to smell absolutely heavenly after an hour or two – that’s when you know it's working its magic! Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; every peek adds time to the cooking. This is the beauty of this Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe – mostly hands-off!
04 -
After the recommended cooking time, your apples should be incredibly soft and easily mashable. They'll look almost translucent. If they're still a bit firm, just let them cook a bit longer. I once pulled them too early, and ended up with crunchy applesauce, which was... interesting. Not what we're going for! Make sure they're completely tender for that silky smooth texture.
05 -
Once the apples are super soft, remove the cinnamon sticks. Now, grab a potato masher, a fork, or even an immersion blender if you like it super smooth. Mash away until you reach your desired consistency. I prefer mine a little chunky, so I go easy with the masher. This is also the time to stir in your lemon juice and taste it. Need more sweetness? Add a touch more sugar or maple syrup. Want more spice? A tiny pinch of ground cinnamon can go in here. Make it yours!
06 -
Let your homemade Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe cool down a bit before serving. It thickens as it cools, too. Transfer it to jars or an airtight container. It’ll be warm, fragrant, and just pure comfort. The color should be a lovely golden-brown, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with autumn vibes. Honestly, this is the best part – seeing all your effort turn into something so simple and delicious!
# Notes:
01 -
Always use a mix of apples for the best flavor balance; sweet and tart work wonders together.
02 -
Store cooled applesauce in individual portions in the freezer for quick, single-serve treats.
03 -
If you don't have apple cider, water works just fine, but cider adds a richer depth.
04 -
Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for an extra cozy touch.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Crockpot/Slow Cooker
02 -
Vegetable peeler
03 -
Potato masher (or immersion blender)
04 -
Airtight containers/jars
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 120-180
Total Fat: 0-1g
Total Carbohydrate: 30-45g
Protein: 0-1g