If you have a craving for something sweet, comforting, and downright wholesome, you will adore this Easy Crockpot Applesauce recipe. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about slow-cooked apples transforming into a naturally sweet, cinnamon-kissed sauce with the perfect hint of lemon brightness. It’s effortless to make yet packed with delicious layers of flavor that blossom over hours in your crockpot. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who loves cozy homemade treats, this Easy Crockpot Applesauce is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each one plays a special role, whether to enhance flavor, balance sweetness, or add the perfect texture to your applesauce.

6-7 large apples: About 4 pounds of apples, providing the natural sweetness and body for the sauce. Varieties like Fuji or Gala add nice sweetness, while Granny Smith brings a tart tang.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and preserves apples’ color, preventing that dull brown look after cooking.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Warms up the flavor with a familiar spice that pairs beautifully with cooked apples.
1 cup water: Creates the perfect amount of moisture to allow slow cooking without drying out the apples.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples

Start by peeling your apples using a paring knife or vegetable peeler. Removing the peel ensures a smooth texture and avoids any bitterness from the skin. Then, dice the peeled apples into even 1 to 1½-inch chunks. Uniform pieces cook evenly and quickly become tender in the crockpot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Place the diced apples directly into your crockpot. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the top, and add the cup of water. These ingredients will mingle as they slowly cook, creating that comforting aroma and vibrant flavor you’re craving.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours until the apples become very soft and ready to be mashed. The slow, gentle heat will coax out the natural sugars and soften the fruit beautifully.

Step 4: Mash or Blend to Desired Texture

Once cooked, you can use a potato masher for a chunky, rustic texture or an immersion blender for a smooth, velvety applesauce. Both options are delicious and depend on your personal preference or use.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Allow your Easy Crockpot Applesauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it into mason jars or airtight containers. Proper storage will preserve its fresh taste and texture for days to come.

How to Serve Easy Crockpot Applesauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices on top can elevate your crockpot applesauce from simple to special. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey offers additional warmth and sweetness for those indulgent moments.

Side Dishes

Easy Crockpot Applesauce is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Serve it alongside pork chops, roast chicken, or even pancakes and waffles at breakfast. Its comforting sweetness balances savory flavors perfectly and adds a fresh note to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider layering your applesauce with granola and yogurt in a parfait glass for a delightful breakfast treat. You can also swirl it into oatmeal or use it as a natural sweetener in muffins and baked goods for an extra fruity zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover Easy Crockpot Applesauce in airtight containers for up to one week. Keeping it chilled ensures the flavors meld even more, making every spoonful taste better as the days go by.

Freezing

For longer storage, applesauce freezes exceptionally well. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. Frozen applesauce can last up to three months, perfect for whipping up a cozy treat anytime.

Reheating

Reheat your applesauce gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals. Stir it occasionally for even warming. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or apple juice to restore the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Different apples bring unique flavors. Mixing sweet and tart varieties gives a well-rounded taste, but feel free to experiment with your favorites to find your perfect blend.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you prefer a bit of extra fiber and rustic feel, leaving the skins on is fine. Just be sure to use a powerful blender if you want it very smooth.

Is it possible to make this without cinnamon?

Yes! Cinnamon adds warmth, but if you’re not a fan or have allergies, you can omit it or substitute with nutmeg, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.

How do I know when the apples are done cooking?

The apples are ready when they’re very soft and can be easily mashed with a spoon or masher. They should have a tender, melting texture throughout.

Can I add sugar or sweeteners to this applesauce?

The natural sweetness of the apples usually makes added sugar unnecessary. However, if you prefer sweeter applesauce, a touch of honey or maple syrup can be added after cooking to taste.

Final Thoughts

Making Easy Crockpot Applesauce is like wrapping yourself in a cozy, fruity hug. It’s uncomplicated, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable—a recipe that feels like a hug from the inside out. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every spoonful as much as I do. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this slow-cooked comfort food in your repertoire.

Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 17 reviews

Author: Matteo
Total Time: 6 to 6.5 hours
Yield: About 6 cups 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This easy crockpot applesauce recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy homemade applesauce with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker, you can create a naturally sweet and flavorful applesauce, perfect as a snack, dessert, or versatile ingredient in other recipes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6–7 large apples (about 4 pounds)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup water

Instructions

Peel the apples: Use a paring knife or vegetable peeler to carefully remove the skin from each apple.
Dice the apples: Cut the peeled apples into even 1 to 1½-inch chunks to ensure consistent cooking.
Prepare the crockpot: Place the diced apples into the crockpot.
Add flavorings and cook: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, cinnamon, and water. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the apples are very soft and tender.
Mash or blend: For chunky applesauce, mash the cooked apples with a potato masher. For a smoother consistency, blend the mixture with an immersion blender.
Cool and store: Let the applesauce cool completely, then transfer to mason jars or airtight storage containers. Refrigerate and consume within 1-2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples (such as Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith) for a balanced flavor.
Adjust cinnamon to taste or add other spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
Use fresh lemon juice to prevent apples from browning and to add brightness.
If you prefer no added sugar, this recipe relies on the natural sweetness of the apples.
Use a food mill or regular blender if you don’t have an immersion blender for smooth applesauce.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on LOW or 2.5 hours on HIGH
Category: Side Dish, Snack, Dessert
Method: Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
Cuisine: American