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Easy Slow Cooker Cinnamon Applesauce: 5 Ingredients

slow cooker cinnamon applesauce - featured image

A simple, low-effort slow cooker applesauce made with just a few pantry staples. Using a whole cinnamon stick instead of ground spice ensures a smooth, aromatic flavor without bitterness, resulting in a velvety texture perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and chopped into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 23 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • 1 large whole cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash, peel, core, and chop apples into 1-inch cubes. Place in a large bowl.
  2. Transfer apple chunks to a 3-to-4-quart slow cooker.
  3. Add water, sugar, lemon juice, and nutmeg (if using). Stir gently to combine.
  4. Drop the whole cinnamon stick into the pot; do not stir it in.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours until apples are extremely tender and fall apart easily when pierced with a fork.
  6. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick.
  7. Puree the mixture using an immersion blender directly in the pot until smooth, or mash with a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
  8. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or honey if desired.
  9. Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. It will thicken slightly as it cools.

Notes

Avoid using Red Delicious apples as they do not break down well. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess moisture. If using frozen apples, check earlier as they break down faster and release more liquid. The flavor improves after a day or two as spices meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker applesauce, cinnamon applesauce, healthy snack, fall recipe, gluten-free, vegan, easy dessert, homemade applesauce