As the crisp air of fall settles in, my kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and comfort. You know that moment when the sweet scent of cinnamon and apples wafts through the house? That’s exactly what happens when you whip up this Easy Crockpot Applesauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a velvety treat that’s not only healthy but also naturally sweetened with honey—perfect for those of us longing for a break from fast food!
I remember my first time making applesauce like this; I tossed everything into the crockpot, set it, and savored the way my home was filled with delightful aromas. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability: whether you prefer peels or not, or wish to tweak the sweetness to your liking, the choice is yours! So, roll up your sleeves, grab some fresh apples, and let’s craft a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both a conversation starter and a delightful way to enjoy the season.
Why is Crockpot Applesauce a must-try?
Simplicity is key: With minimal prep, just toss the ingredients in and let the crockpot do the work.
Natural sweetness shines through: Honey enhances flavor without the added sugars, making this a guilt-free treat.
Adaptable to your taste: Customize it by adjusting the sweetness or even leaving the skins on for extra texture!
Crowd-pleaser for all ages: This homemade applesauce is perfect for kids and adults alike—served warm or cold, it’s always a hit.
Kitchen aroma bliss: The sweet scent of simmering apples and spices fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Crockpot Applesauce Ingredients
For the Applesauce
• Apples – Choose sweet varieties like McIntosh, Jonagold, Gala, or Pinklady for the best natural flavor.
• Honey – Naturally sweetens the applesauce without refined sugars; adjust to your taste for a personalized touch.
• Cinnamon Stick – Infuses warmth and depth; ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds a cozy spice mix; optional for those who prefer a more traditional apple flavor.
• Lemon – Brightens and enhances flavor; use half for juice and save the peel for extra infusion.
How to Make Crockpot Applesauce
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Prepare the Apples
Clean and core your choice of sweet apples. The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t need to peel them—keep that nutritious skin intact! -
Combine Ingredients
Place the apples, honey, cinnamon stick, pumpkin pie spice (if using), and the lemon juice (plus the peel) into the crockpot. This harmony of flavors will create a deliciously warm blend. -
Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally, watching for the apples to soften and release their fragrant aroma. -
Blend
Once the apples are completely softened, remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. Carefully blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender, food mill, or blender, taking care of the hot contents. -
Adjust Sweetness
Taste your applesauce! If desired, add more honey for extra sweetness. Allow the mixture to cool before enjoying or storing.
Optional: Serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra cozy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Applesauce
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Choose the Right Apples: Sweet apple varieties like McIntosh or Gala provide the best flavor. Avoid tart apples to ensure your applesauce remains pleasant and sweet.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking can lead to overly thick applesauce. Aim for that perfect softness, checking around the 2-hour mark on HIGH or 4 hours on LOW.
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Blending Technique: For the smoothest texture, use a high-powered blender. If using a regular blender, let the mixture cool slightly to prevent splattering.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste before blending! Add more honey if you desire extra sweetness. Balance is key for a delicious proper applesauce.
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Storage Solutions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze portions for longer-lasting enjoyment of your homemade crockpot applesauce.
Crockpot Applesauce Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists to make your homemade applesauce truly your own!
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Maple Syrup: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to elevate the warmth and complexity of your applesauce.
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Peel On: Keep the skins for added texture and a colorful mix; it enhances both flavor and nutritional value without any extra work.
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Citrus Splash: Add the zest of an orange for a refreshing twist that brightens the natural apple flavor in each bite.
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Chunky Style: Reserve a few cooked apple pieces before blending; mix them back in for a delightful surprise of texture.
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Berry Bliss: Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or cranberries, to create a fruity fusion that’s bursting with flavor.
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Heat It Up: Mix in a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper for an unexpected kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans after blending for a rich, crunchy element that adds depth to every spoonful.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Applesauce
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Make sure to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 6 months. Label with the date for easy tracking of your delicious homemade applesauce.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen crockpot applesauce, thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the container in warm water. Stir well before serving to regain that smooth consistency.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much upon reheating.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Applesauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the apples—cleaned and cored—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also mix in the honey, cinnamon stick, pumpkin pie spice, and lemon juice and peel ahead of time for convenience. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer everything to the crockpot, cover, and set it to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade treat with minimal effort, letting you enjoy the heartwarming aroma of apples and spices wafting through your home!
What to Serve with Crockpot Applesauce?
Creating delightful meals is all about harmony and balance, and nothing complements the warmth of homemade applesauce like the right sides and treats.
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Savory Pork Chops: The juicy flavor of grilled or sautéed pork pairs beautifully with the sweetness of applesauce, creating a satisfying contrast.
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Fluffy Pancakes: Drizzle some applesauce over a stack of fluffy pancakes to add a deliciously fruity twist to your breakfast or brunch.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of smooth applesauce on creamy Greek yogurt enhances its taste, making for a nutritious snack that pleases the palate.
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Oatmeal: Stirring in some crockpot applesauce into your morning oatmeal creates a comforting bowl filled with warmth and natural sweetness.
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Waffles: Light, crispy waffles become irresistible when topped with applesauce, adding a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.
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Nutty Granola Bars: Use applesauce as a binding ingredient in homemade granola bars, keeping them moist and providing a hint of sweetness—perfect for on-the-go snacks.
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Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Dip freshly baked donuts in cinnamon and sugar and serve them alongside warm applesauce for a comforting dessert pairing.
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Spiced Tea or Cider: Pair your applesauce with a warm mug of spiced cider or tea to emphasize the cozy, fall flavors in each delightful bite.
These suggestions ensure you create a deliciously rounded meal or snack that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Crockpot Applesauce Recipe FAQs
What are the best apples to use for crockpot applesauce?
Absolutely! For a delightful flavor, opt for sweet apple varieties like McIntosh, Jonagold, Gala, or Pink Lady. They provide that natural sweetness you’re looking for without any added sugars. Tart apples can be less pleasant in flavor, so stick to the sweeter options for the best results!
How can I store homemade crockpot applesauce?
Very easily! Store your applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to keep its yummy flavor and texture intact. It’s a wonderful treat to enjoy whenever the craving strikes!
Can I freeze my crockpot applesauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze your homemade crockpot applesauce in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 6 months. Just remember to label them with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or place the container in warm water.
What should I do if my applesauce is too thick after cooking?
If it turns out a tad thick, don’t fret! The beauty of applesauce is that you can adjust it. Simply add a splash of water or apple juice when reheating to achieve the desired consistency. Stir well until it’s warmed through, and you’ll have that lovely, smooth texture again.
Is this crockpot applesauce suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it a delight for many dietary preferences. Moreover, it contains no added sugars, just the natural sweetness of apples and honey. If you’re concerned about allergies, always double-check the ingredients, particularly the honey, as it may not be suitable for some individuals.
Can I customize the sweetness of my crockpot applesauce?
Very much so! The recipe invites you to adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Start with the suggested amount of honey and taste before blending. If you prefer it sweeter, simply add more honey to achieve that perfect, personalized flavor!
Homemade Crockpot Applesauce: Naturally Sweet & Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean and core your choice of sweet apples. The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t need to peel them—keep that nutritious skin intact!
- Place the apples, honey, cinnamon stick, pumpkin pie spice (if using), and the lemon juice (plus the peel) into the crockpot. This harmony of flavors will create a deliciously warm blend.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally, watching for the apples to soften and release their fragrant aroma.
- Once the apples are completely softened, remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. Carefully blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender, food mill, or blender, taking care of the hot contents.
- Taste your applesauce! If desired, add more honey for extra sweetness. Allow the mixture to cool before enjoying or storing.