Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the air. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a delicious homemade cinnamon applesauce that will have your family begging for seconds! This easy recipe not only fills your home with a delightful scent but also offers a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a tasty snack, this Slow Cooker Cinnamon Applesauce is a must-try. Read on to discover how to whip up this delightful dish that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups peeled and chopped apples
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into roughly 1-inch chunks. Choose sweet-tart varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for best flavor.
- Place the chopped apples into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed across the bottom of the pot.
- Pour the water over the apples to help prevent sticking and create steam for cooking.
- Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the apples to provide sweetness and help break down the fruit.
- Add the ground cinnamon, distributing it thoroughly to ensure a consistent flavor throughout the applesauce.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the apples to prevent browning and add a subtle tangy brightness to the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to help break down the apples and ensure even cooking.
- After 4 hours, use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve your desired applesauce consistency - chunky or smooth.
- Let the applesauce cool for 15-20 minutes before transferring to storage containers.
- Serve warm or chilled. Store in refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet-tart apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These varieties will give your applesauce a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can peel and chop the apples in advance. Store them in an airtight container with a little lemon juice to prevent browning until you're ready to cook.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apples before adding sugar. If they are naturally sweet, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar for a healthier option.
- Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is a classic, feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier applesauce, mash it with a potato masher. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a regular blender after letting it cool slightly.
- Storage Tips: Store your applesauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it in portions for longer storage—perfect for a quick snack later!
- Serve Creatively: Enjoy your applesauce on its own, or use it as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or oatmeal. It also makes a fantastic addition to baked goods!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
