Slow Cooker Applesauce
This Slow Cooker Applesauce recipe is easy to make in the crockpot and only uses 5 ingredients! You can make it chunky, smooth or any way in between. Everyone will love this healthy and satisfying snack! Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, refined sugar-free and easily Whole30.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs apples , (use a variety about 8-10), peeled, cored and sliced
- 2/3 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp pure maple syrup , or to taste - can also sub with your preferred liquid sweetener or leave out for a sugar-free Whole30 version
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
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Add the apples to the slow cooker. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well.
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Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the apples are well broken down, stirring 2-3 times in between.
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For a chunkier applesauce, serve as is. For a smoother version, use an immersion blender to puree or transfer to a blender or food processor. Add more sweetener or spices, to taste.
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Store airtight in the fridge.
Instant Pot Method
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Combine Ingredients: Add all the ingredients to the inner pot of a 6-quart Instant Pot. Turn Instant Pot to “Manual” and pressure cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow to naturally release for 20 minutes
Chunky Applesauce: Stir to break down the apples and add more sweetener or spices, to taste.
For smooth applesauce: Use an immersion blender to puree the apples. Alternatively, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add more sweetener or spices to taste.
Allow to Cool: Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it in the fridge.