This homemade crockpot cinnamon applesauce is an easy, no-fuss recipe that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of apples and cinnamon. Made with fresh apples, a touch of sweetness, and fragrant spices, this slow-cooked applesauce is perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or pork chops. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have delicious homemade applesauce without any preservatives or artificial flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook.
- Naturally Sweet & Flavorful No need for added sugar (unless you prefer it sweeter).
- Healthy & Homemade Free from preservatives and artificial ingredients.
- Versatile Enjoy it warm or cold, as a snack, side, or dessert.
- Make-Ahead Friendly Perfect for meal prep and can be stored or frozen for later.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
- Cinnamon
- Lemon juice
- Water
- Sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- Nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
Directions
- Prepare the Apples Peel, core, and chop the apples into chunks.
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot Place the apples in the slow cooker and add cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Stir to coat.
- Cook Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples will soften and break down.
- Mash or Blend For chunky applesauce, mash with a potato masher. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Taste & Adjust Add sugar if needed, depending on the sweetness of your apples. Stir in nutmeg if using.
- Cool & Store Let the applesauce cool before transferring it to jars or containers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 6 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6+ hours
Variations
- No-Sugar Version Skip the sugar if your apples are naturally sweet enough.
- Spiced Applesauce Add cloves, allspice, or a cinnamon stick for extra warmth.
- Apple-Pear Blend Replace half the apples with pears for a unique twist.
- Vanilla Applesauce Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooking.
- Caramel Applesauce Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for a rich, dessert-like flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
- Reheating Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat if desired.
FAQs
What are the best apples for homemade applesauce?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious work well for a naturally sweet flavor. Granny Smith adds a tart kick.
Do I have to peel the apples?
No, but peeling results in a smoother texture. If you leave the peels on, blend well after cooking.
How do I make applesauce without a crockpot?
Cook apples on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 30-40 minutes until soft, then mash or blend.
Can I use apple cider instead of water?
Yes! Apple cider adds extra depth and sweetness.
Is this applesauce good for babies?
Yes! Just leave out the sugar and use mild apples like Fuji or Golden Delicious.
Can I can this applesauce for long-term storage?
Yes, but follow proper canning procedures, including sterilizing jars and processing in a water bath.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth to the applesauce.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release and mash or blend.
Why is my applesauce too thin?
Cook it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken, or add less water next time.
What can I serve with applesauce?
Enjoy it on its own, with pancakes, waffles, yogurt, oatmeal, or as a side with pork chops.
Conclusion
Crockpot cinnamon applesauce is a simple, homemade treat that’s packed with flavor and perfect for all ages. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, smooth or chunky, this recipe is an easy way to make delicious applesauce with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of slow-cooked apples and cinnamon!
Description
This homemade applesauce is made with fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that makes your kitchen smell amazing! Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a topping for pancakes and oatmeal.
Prepare the apples Peel, core, and chop the apples into chunks.- Add ingredients to crockpot Place apples in the crockpot and add water (or apple juice), brown sugar (if using), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Cook Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Apples will soften and break down.
- Mash or blend For chunky applesauce, mash with a fork or potato masher. For smooth applesauce, blend with an immersion blender or food processor.
- Cool & store Let cool, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
No sugar option Skip the brown sugar if your apples are naturally sweet.- Apple varieties Mixing sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor. Fuji, Gala, and McIntosh are great choices.
- Spices Add nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
- Serving ideas Enjoy warm or chilled as a snack, on toast, or swirled into yogurt.
