Description
This Crockpot Apple Sauce recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make homemade apple sauce effortlessly. Using a slow cooker allows the apples to gently cook down to a tender, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for snacking, desserts, or as a side dish. The combination of cinnamon and vanilla adds warm, comforting notes that elevate the natural sweetness of the apples.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Sauce Ingredients
- 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the 6 large apples into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking in the crockpot.
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place the chopped apples into the slow cooker. Pour in ½ cup of water, ¼ cup sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference), 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Cook the Apples: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for approximately 8 hours until the apples are very tender and easily mashed.
- Blend the Sauce (Optional): Once cooked, use a potato masher or blender to mash or puree the apple mixture to your desired consistency for smooth or chunky apple sauce.
- Cool and Store: Let the apple sauce cool before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Adjust sugar according to the sweetness of your apples and personal preference.
- You can use any variety of apples, but a mix of sweet and tart varieties works best for balanced flavor.
- For a smoother texture, blend the sauce thoroughly after cooking; for a chunky sauce, mash lightly.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an additional warm spice dimension.
- Use the apple sauce as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or as a healthy snack on its own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
