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Crockpot Applesauce Recipe

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This easy Crockpot Applesauce recipe allows you to make homemade applesauce with minimal effort using a slow cooker. Tender apples cooked with cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg come together to create a naturally sweet and flavorful applesauce, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Applesauce Ingredients

  • 3 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes – about 6-8 medium apples)
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • Pinch ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into 1-inch cubes. This helps the apples cook evenly and break down smoothly in the crockpot.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Layer the apple cubes in the slow cooker bowl. Pour the water and lemon juice over the apples. Add the cinnamon sticks, a pinch of kosher salt, and if desired, a pinch of ground nutmeg. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  3. Cook the Apples: Set the crockpot to a high heat setting and cook for 3 to 4 hours, or alternatively on a low heat setting for 5 to 6 hours. Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker, so check the apples after 3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  4. Puree the Applesauce: Once the apples are soft and cooked through, transfer them to a high-powered blender (such as a Vitamix) and blend until smooth. If using an immersion blender directly in the crockpot, continue blending until no chunks remain, though this may take longer.
  5. Cool and Store: Allow the applesauce to cool completely. Then, portion it into jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy as a healthy snack or dessert option.

Notes

  • For a thicker applesauce, drain some of the cooking liquid before blending or cook slightly longer to reduce excess liquid.
  • Add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter applesauce, but natural apple sweetness is often sufficient.
  • Use a mix of apple varieties to achieve a more complex flavor—tart apples like Granny Smith paired with sweeter varieties work well.
  • Homemade applesauce can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.