Slightly chunky and gently spiced, Homemade Crockpot Applesauce is soft enough to spoon over oatmeal and rich enough to serve warm over ice cream on a chilly afternoon.
4firm applessuch as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji – peeled, cored, and sliced
1/2cupapple ciderNOT apple juice
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1Tablespoonchai spice*
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a 1.5-quart slow cooker.
Cook on high for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft with just a few chunks remaining.
Notes
*Make your own chai spice using 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves.You can also cook this on the stovetop. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan, cover, and cook over medium-high heat for 20 minutes. Stir, cover again, reduce heat to low, and cook 10 minutes more.Store the applesauce only after it has completely cooled. Keep it in an airtight container or a mason jar with lid in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or silicone ice cube trays for smaller portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even texture.