Slow Cooker Cinnamon Applesauce

This slow cooker cinnamon applesauce is a perfect balance of sweet and spice, making it an ideal snack or side dish. It’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, and the slow cooking process infuses the apples with rich, warm flavors. Whether you’re looking to make a comforting treat for your family or add a homemade touch to your meals, this applesauce recipe is sure to become a go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker cinnamon applesauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s naturally sweet, spiced with cinnamon, and bursting with flavor. The best part? You don’t have to worry about standing over the stove for hours. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and in a few hours, you’ll have a delicious, homemade applesauce ready to enjoy. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a snack, side dish, or topping for oatmeal, pancakes, or even desserts.

Ingredients

• 10 large apples (Golden Delicious recommended)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into quarters.

2. Combine Ingredients: Place the apples in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water over the apples. Toss to combine.

3. Cook: Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the apples are soft.

4. Mash or Blend: Once the apples are soft, use a potato masher or fork to break up any large chunks. For a smoother applesauce, use an immersion blender or let the apples cool before blending in a blender.

5. Store: Store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 4 hours

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter applesauce, feel free to add more sugar or try using maple syrup or honey as a substitute.

• Spice It Up: Customize the flavor by adding more spices, such as cloves or ginger, for an extra kick.

• Chunky Applesauce: For a chunkier texture, mash the apples less or skip the blending step entirely.

• Fruit Blend: Add other fruits like pears or cranberries for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the applesauce in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the applesauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quick snack.

FAQs

How long can I store slow cooker cinnamon applesauce?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I use any type of apple for applesauce?

While Golden Delicious apples are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can use any variety of apples, depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make this applesauce without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar or substitute it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Can I use a blender to smooth out the applesauce?

Yes, an immersion blender or regular blender can be used to achieve a smooth texture if you prefer your applesauce without chunks.

Can I add more spices to this applesauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add spices like cloves, ginger, or allspice to suit your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this slow cooker cinnamon applesauce is naturally gluten-free.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the quantities as needed, and the slow cooker will still work for a larger or smaller batch.

What is the best way to serve slow cooker cinnamon applesauce?

It’s great served warm as a side dish, with pancakes, or even on top of yogurt or oatmeal.

Can I make this applesauce in a stovetop pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the apples in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until they soften (about 30-45 minutes).

Can I freeze the applesauce in jars?

Yes, you can freeze applesauce in jars, but make sure to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.

Conclusion

This slow cooker cinnamon applesauce is the epitome of cozy comfort food. It’s simple to prepare and packed with rich, spiced flavor that will make your kitchen smell amazing as it cooks. Perfect for snacking, serving with meals, or storing for later, this applesauce is bound to be a favorite. Enjoy it fresh, or store it for those times when you want a little homemade sweetness in your life.

Print