Slow Cooked Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce Bliss (Print Version)

Make comforting Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce easily. This simple recipe captures sweet apple and warm spice, perfect for any day. So good!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 4 Hours minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - Apples (6-8 medium, about 3-4 lbs), peeled, cored, and chopped
02 - Water or Apple Cider (1/2 cup)

→ Flavor Boosters

03 - Granulated Sugar or Brown Sugar (1/4 to 1/2 cup, or to taste)
04 - Ground Cinnamon (1-2 teaspoons)
05 - Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, fresh)
06 - Pinch of Nutmeg (optional)

→ Optional Extras

07 - Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get those apples ready! I usually peel, core, and chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Don't stress too much about perfect uniformity; they're all going to break down anyway. Honestly, I've left the peels on before for extra fiber and a rustic look, but then I usually run an immersion blender through it at the end to smooth it out. This step always makes my kitchen smell like fresh autumn air, even before cooking starts.
02 - Toss all your prepped apples into your trusty slow cooker. Add the water or apple cider (remember my mistake!), sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and that tiny pinch of nutmeg if you're using it. Give everything a good stir to make sure the apples are coated with those lovely spices. I sometimes get a little messy here, spilling a bit of sugar, but that's just part of the process, right?
03 - Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The cooking time really depends on your crockpot and how soft you like your applesauce. You're looking for apples that are super tender, practically falling apart. The scent that starts wafting through your house during this step? Pure bliss, I tell you! It's the best part of making Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce.
04 - Once the apples are fork-tender, it's mashing time! For a chunkier, more rustic Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce, grab a potato masher and go to town. If you prefer it super smooth, an immersion blender is your best friend. Just be careful, it's hot! I once splattered hot applesauce all over my counter trying to blend too fast. Oops. Blend until you hit your desired consistency.
05 - This is a critical step, don't skip it! Taste your Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce. Does it need more sugar? Another dash of cinnamon? This is where you can really make it your own. If you're adding vanilla extract, stir it in now. I always find myself adding just a little more cinnamon; I just can't help myself! It's a personal preference, so trust your taste buds here.
06 - Let the applesauce cool down a bit before serving or storing. As it cools, the flavors will meld even more beautifully. It's fantastic warm, but I honestly think it tastes even better once it's completely chilled. It should look glossy and inviting, smelling of sweet apples and warm spice. This homemade Crockpot Cinnamon Applesauce is truly a simple pleasure.

# Notes:

01 - Always taste your applesauce before adding all the sugar; apple sweetness varies.
02 - Let the applesauce cool completely before storing in the fridge or freezer for best results.
03 - Try a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more balanced and interesting flavor profile.
04 - This applesauce is fantastic warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - 6-quart slow cooker (crockpot)
02 - vegetable peeler
03 - apple corer (optional)
04 - cutting board
05 - knife
06 - potato masher or immersion blender
07 - airtight containers

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 120
Total Fat: 0.5g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 0.5g

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