Homemade Crockpot Applesauce
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds apples
6-7 medium
- 2-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup)
(omit completely if desired for kids
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch)
(tapioca starch for paleo version
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice *
Directions
- 1
Add the apples, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, cornstarch (or tapioca flour) pumpkin pie spice, vanilla and salt to the slow cooker and gently toss with a spatula until the apples are evenly coated.
- 2
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2 hours. Start checking it at 4 hours to make sure it doesn't overcook. If the apples are soft with no give they're done.
- 3
Taste the applesauce for sweetness then add more 1 tablespoon at a time if you like it more sweet. Allow to cool slightly then blend together with an immersion blender or food processor. If you're leaving your chunky, mix well with a for to break apart and use the back of the fork or a potato masher to mash up any larger chunks.
- 4
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days for follow the directions in this post for canning.
Homemade Crockpot Applesauce
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About this Recipe
Imagine the comforting aroma of warm apples and spice filling your home, without hours of stirring over a hot stove. This homemade crockpot applesauce delivers that cozy feeling with a depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can't match, all with minimal effort.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its 'low and slow' cooking method, allowing the apples to gently break down and caramelize over several hours. This process develops a profound, complex sweetness and a deep, rich flavor profile, enhanced by the thoughtful blend of spices. It’s a hands-off approach that yields extraordinary results.
Prepare for an applesauce experience unlike any other. You'll savor a velvety, spoonable texture complemented by a deep, natural sweetness from the slow-cooked apples, perfectly balanced by pure maple syrup. The warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, thoughtfully layered through the pumpkin pie spice, truly shine through, creating a comforting, almost dessert-like quality. It’s incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect addition to any meal or snack.
This recipe offers easy customization to suit your preferences. You can effortlessly adjust the sweetness by using anywhere from 2 to 4 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, or omit it completely if you're aiming for an unsweetened version, particularly for little ones. For those following a paleo diet, simply swap the cornstarch for tapioca starch. You can also experiment with different apple varieties to subtly alter the final flavor and texture, from tart to intensely sweet.
Serve this luscious, deep caramel-flavored applesauce warm as a comforting snack, a delightful side dish with roasted meats, or as a flavorful topping for breakfast favorites like pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. It’s a versatile homemade staple that brings warmth and homemade goodness to any occasion.