Get A Taste Of Fall With Easy Slow-Cooker Applesauce

With apple picking season in full swing, you’re likely to find bushels of juicy red fruit in your kitchen for the next several weeks.

If the kids are already getting tired of the same old apple in their lunchbox, why not shake things up with a little homemade applesauce?

We know what you’re thinking — you don’t have time to make homemade anything.

With a little help from your slow cooker, though, this recipe cooks itself while you’re taking care of daytime business. When you get home, you’ve got a sweet treat (with no added sugar) ready to go!

It really is ridiculously simple. First, grab some of those apples. We used about three to four pounds of McIntosh apples, which resulted in a nice sweet but slightly tart sauce.

No McIntosh? No worries. We’ve also used Fuji and Golden Delicious, but there are a number of combinations you could try.

Next, slice and core your apples. If you have an apple slicer, this step will take maybe five minutes. This might be a good time to get your kid in on the cooking — studies have shown that teaching children a bit about cooking early on can help with their own nutritional choices now, and in the future.

We typically leave the skin on, because it’s packed with fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It also gives the sauce a nice warm color. That said, feel free to peel it off before cooking if the skin is not your cup of tea.

Toss your sliced apples into a slow cooker, sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg to taste, turn it on low, and go about your day. No added water or sugar needed.

When your apartment begins to smell like fall (about five or six hours on low), give the apples a peek to see if you’re happy with the consistency.

If you’re looking for a chunky texture, your sauce should be good to go after a few good twirls of the spoon.

For a smoother sauce, just puree the cooked apples until your desired consistency is reached.

Your applesauce should last in the refrigerator for about a week, or if you want to store it, place it in the freezer.

Have a fantastic fall recipe to share? Email editor@bklyner.com.