Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Mixing tart and sweet varieties is the key, but feel free to use whatever you have—Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, or Pink Lady all work beautifully. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples.

Do I need to peel the apples first?

For the smoothest, most classic applesauce, peeling is best. But if you like a rustic, slightly textured sauce with extra fiber, go ahead and leave the peels on. Just blend well at the end.

Can I make applesauce without any sugar?

Definitely. Most of the time, apples alone are sweet enough, especially if you include sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious. Brown sugar is totally optional and adjustable to taste.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No problem! You can simmer everything gently on the stovetop in a large pot with a lid, stirring occasionally, until soft. Oven roasting is another fun twist for a deeper, caramelized flavor.

Easy Homemade Crock Pot Applesauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a fuss-free treat that brings all the coziness of fall right into your kitchen—no matter what time of year—you’re going to absolutely adore this Easy Homemade Crock Pot Applesauce. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and hardly any effort, you’ll end up with a fragrant, comforting applesauce that’s the perfect snack, side, or even dessert. This recipe is tailor-made for those crazy weeknights or busy weekends when you crave something homemade but don’t have spare hours to spend in the kitchen. The blend of sweet Fuji and tart Granny Smith apples creates a depth of flavor, and the hint of cinnamon makes your whole house smell like pure joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbeatable Simplicity: Honestly, the slow cooker does all the work. Just toss in your ingredients, give a quick stir, and you’re free to do whatever else you need.
Incredible Fresh Flavor: No jarred or store-bought version comes close to the vibrant, apple-forward taste of making it fresh. The balance between tangy and sweet is entirely in your hands!
So Versatile: This applesauce isn’t just for kids’ lunchboxes. Enjoy it warm over pancakes, as a side for pork chops, swirled into oatmeal, or simply by the spoonful.
Customize to Your Taste: Control the level of sweetness, texture, and even the spice. Plus, you know exactly what goes in; no hidden additives here.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these basic, easy-to-find ingredients and let’s get started:

Granny Smith Apples: These are all about that tart, crisp bite and ensure the applesauce has a punchy, lemony undertone. Perfect for balancing sweeter apples.
Fuji Apples: Naturally sweet and soft when cooked, they help create a beautifully smooth, mellow base.
Water: Just enough to get everything simmering and prevent sticking.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness, helps keep the applesauce vibrant, and balances natural sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon: This is the secret to cozy, nostalgic applesauce. Don’t skip!
Light Brown Sugar (Optional): Great for those who prefer a little extra sweetness. Only add after tasting; sometimes you’ll find you don’t need it at all.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This recipe is a wonderful canvas, so don’t be afraid to play:

Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ground ginger for even richer fall flavor.
Berry Burst: Toss in a handful of cranberries or raspberries during cooking for a sweet-tart twist.
Chunky or Smooth: Mash lightly for a rustic, chunky applesauce, or blend until silky-smooth.
Vegan Butter Finish: For an extra-luxurious version, stir in a pat of vegan butter right at the end.

How to Make Easy Crock Pot Applesauce

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Peel, core, and cube the apples. Trust me, a quick few minutes here makes the rest of the process completely effortless.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Add your Granny Smith and Fuji apple cubes to the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the cinnamon, pour over the lemon juice and water, and give everything a quick stir so the flavors begin to mingle.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its thing for 5–6 hours, or use the high setting for 3–4 hours if you need it ready faster. Stir once or twice so nothing sticks and the apples cook evenly.

Step 4: Mash or Blend

Once the apples are meltingly soft, you get to choose your adventure: mash with a fork or potato masher for lovely chunky applesauce, or use an immersion blender for a silky-smooth finish.

Step 5: Adjust Sweetness

Give it a taste. If you’d like it sweeter, stir in a bit of brown sugar—start small, since some apples are naturally sweet enough.

Step 6: Serve or Store

You can serve your applesauce warm, at room temperature, or chill it for later. Either way, it never disappoints!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Keep an Eye on Liquid: Don’t add extra water; too much makes it soupy. The apples will release plenty of juice as they break down.
Check for Sweetness: Fuji apples can be quite sweet, so always taste before adding sugar.
Don’t Over-Blend: If you love texture, stop mashing while there are still some apple chunks.
Batch Prep: Double the recipe if your slow cooker’s big enough! Homemade applesauce freezes beautifully.

How to Serve

Applesauce is so incredibly versatile—don’t just think of it as a topping:

Classic Side: Spoon up next to roast pork or chicken for a sweet, tangy pairing.
On Breakfasts: Swirl into hot oatmeal, layer with yogurt and granola, or even serve on pancakes and waffles.
Snack Attack: Pack in little containers for a naturally sweet, portable snack for all ages.
Dessert Upgrade: Warm up and ladle over vanilla ice cream, or use as a topping for pound cake.

Tip: Sprinkle with granola, nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to a week.

Freezing

Let applesauce cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the applesauce over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. It’s perfectly delicious straight from the fridge too!

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Mixing tart and sweet varieties is the key, but feel free to use whatever you have—Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, or Pink Lady all work beautifully. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples.
Do I need to peel the apples first?

For the smoothest, most classic applesauce, peeling is best. But if you like a rustic, slightly textured sauce with extra fiber, go ahead and leave the peels on. Just blend well at the end.
Can I make applesauce without any sugar?

Definitely. Most of the time, apples alone are sweet enough, especially if you include sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious. Brown sugar is totally optional and adjustable to taste.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No problem! You can simmer everything gently on the stovetop in a large pot with a lid, stirring occasionally, until soft. Oven roasting is another fun twist for a deeper, caramelized flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like dipping your spoon into a bowl of homemade applesauce—especially when you know it took barely any effort! This Easy Crock Pot Applesauce truly embodies simple, delicious comfort, and is sure to become one of your go-to recipes. Give it a try, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy every cozy, apple-packed bite. Happy cooking!