Cozy Slow Cooker Cinnamon Applesauce
A simple, set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker applesauce made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and lemon juice. This healthy, gluten-free, and vegan recipe yields a silky, warm treat perfect for snacks or sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-8 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 lbs (1.5–2 kg) apples (mix of sweet and tart, e.g., Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), cored and chopped into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water or apple cider
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water. Core them and chop into 1-inch chunks.
- Place the apple chunks into a 4-6 quart slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples.
- Pour in the water or apple cider and add the fresh lemon juice.
- Give the mixture a gentle stir to distribute the spices and liquid.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the apples are fork-tender.
- Remove the lid and let cool for 10 minutes.
- For chunky applesauce, mash with a potato masher. For smooth applesauce, use an immersion blender.
- Taste and add honey or maple syrup if desired, then stir to combine.
- Serve warm or transfer to airtight containers for storage.
Notes
Do not peel the apples; the skins add color and nutrients. If using frozen apples, reduce the added liquid slightly as they release more water. For best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 2
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 4
Keywords: slow cooker applesauce, cinnamon applesauce, healthy snack, gluten-free, vegan, easy recipe, fall dessert, homemade applesauce