This simple step-by-step guide will show you how to make an easy crockpot applesauce recipe using fresh apples and no added sugar. Serve it warm or chilled, chunky or smooth, for a delicious fall snack everyone loves!
If you’re anything like me, apple season means one thing: coming home with more apples than you know what to do with!
After a recent apple-picking trip, I found myself with an abundance of these sweet, crisp fruits—so of course, I had to make this crockpot applesauce recipe.
I’ve already shared my love for apples with recipes like my spiced apple butter and chunky applesauce, but this easy slow cooker version might just be my favorite.
With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, it’s the perfect way to turn all those apples into a naturally sweet, delicious treat!
Let me show you how easy it is to make this unsweetened applesauce in a slow cooker with only 5 ingredients.
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Ingredients
- Apples: I love using sweet, crisp varieties like Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. These apples break down perfectly while staying naturally sweet. Feel free to mix different varieties for different flavor profiles.
- Lemon juice: A little freshly squeezed lemon juice keeps the apples from browning too much.
- Water: A small amount prevents the apples from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Salt: I know it sounds odd, but just a pinch of salt really helps bring out the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Cinnamon stick: If you don’t have a cinnamon stick, use ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon instead.
Step-by-step instructions
- Step 1: Peel, core and quarter, 4 pounds (1.8 Kg) of apples (about 8-9 medium apples)
- Step 2: Add apples, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, ⅓-½ cup of water, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (or a cinnamon stick) and a pinch of salt to the slow cooker.
- Step 3: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until apples are soft. The longer they cook, the darker the applesauce becomes.
- Step 4: Use a potato masher for chunky applesauce or an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
Tips
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to give your applesauce more depth of flavor.
- Taste the applesauce once it’s cooked. If your apples are naturally sweet, there is no need for any extra sugar.
- Consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla for extra flavor.
- Use a potato masher for chunky applesauce or an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
FAQ
It lasts about 1 week in the refrigerator. Let applesauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating in Mason jars.
Yes! You can freeze it for up to 6 months in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Yes, you can. The skins will soften during cooking. Blend for a smoother texture if desired.
Yes! Cook the apples in a large pot on the stovetop for 20-30 minutes until soft. This article on how to make chunky applesauce provides more details.
Yes, frozen apples work well. Just reduce the added water since they release more liquid.
Cook it uncovered on high for a little longer to evaporate some liquid.
Yes! Simply continue cooking it on low with the lid slightly ajar for several more hours until it thickens and darkens. The longer it cooks, the more concentrated and rich it will become—perfect for spreading on toast!
Add sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste after the apples are cooked
What to make with applesauce
Recipe Inspiration
I’ve always loved how easy it is to make my slow cooker plum butter, so I decided to try the same hands-off approach with apples.
This unsweetened slow cooker applesauce is a simple, fuss-free way to make a flavorful fruit sauce with minimal effort. After peeling, coring, and chopping the apples, you just add them to the slow cooker with a few basic ingredients. Set it and forget it—no need to stir or keep an eye on the stove.
The result is a naturally sweet, flavorful applesauce that’s perfect for fall and great for the whole family!
THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community, where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.
Ciao for now,
Maria
★★★★★ If you have made this crockpot applesauce recipe, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!
Recipe
Easy Crockpot Applesauce Recipe (no added sugar)
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Ingredients
- 4 pounds apples peeled, cored and quartered
- ⅓-½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or use a cinnamon stick
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a 4- to 7-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally during cooking, until the apples are very soft, 4 to 5 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
- Remove the cinnamon stick (if using) and stir the sauce. The apples should be soft and will break down naturally.
- You can leave it as-is if you like a chunky texture or puree it using an immersion blender for a smooth sauce.
- If the applesauce is tart (depending on the apples you used), feel free to sweeten it with sugar, maple syrup or honey to taste.
- Serve warm, at room temperature or chilled.
- WATCH THE VIDEO ON THE RECIPE CARD TO SEE HOW EASY THIS RECIPE IS TO MAKE!
Video
Notes
- Use a mixture of sweet and tart apples. Different apples provide different flavors and are the basis for making an unsweetened applesauce recipe.
- Ensure there is a thin layer of water at the bottom of the pan. This prevents scorching.
- Applesauce can be kept refrigerated for up to 1 week.
- Recipe can easily be doubled, tripled, etc…
- 1 portion is ½ cup.
- Total yield is 3 cups.
Nutrition
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Sara
Best apple sauce ever!
Maria
I agree! Thanks for sharing Sara!