There’s something magical about homemade applesauce. The way it fills your kitchen with warm, cinnamon-spiced aromas, the rich, velvety texture, and the deep, caramelized apple flavor—it’s pure comfort in a spoon.
And the best part? This Crockpot Applesauce Recipe practically cooks itself. Forget the store-bought jars loaded with preservatives. With just a few simple ingredients—fresh apples, a touch of brown sugar, and a hint of pumpkin pie spice—you’ll have an irresistibly cozy treat that’s perfect for fall (or any time of year).
It’s naturally sweet, incredibly versatile, and makes the ultimate topping for Crockpot Sweet Potatoes or a warm bowl of Crockpot Oatmeal. Plus, applesauce isn’t just delicious—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition.
Packed with fiber and antioxidants, it supports digestion, boosts immunity, and keeps you feeling full. Studies even suggest that regularly eating apples can contribute to heart health and weight management.
So yes, this is comfort food you can feel good about. Make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and watch it disappear faster than you ever expected. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to the jarred stuff again.
Why You’ll Want To Make This Again and Again!

- It’s ridiculously easy. Throw everything in the slow cooker, walk away, and let the magic happen. No stirring, no babysitting.
- The flavors are next-level. Slow-cooking intensifies the apple’s natural sweetness, creating a rich, almost caramel-like depth.
- It’s versatile. Enjoy it warm, chilled, on toast, swirled into yogurt, or straight from the jar.
- It’s healthier than store-bought. No artificial sweeteners or preservatives—just real, wholesome ingredients.
- It smells like a cozy autumn day. Honestly, this recipe doubles as a natural home air freshener.

Crockpot Applesauce Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Peeler and corer
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 8 apples – peeled cored, and thinly sliced
- ½ cup water
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- Add the apples, water, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything to combine, then cover with the lid.
- Cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once soft, mash the apples with a spoon or blend for a smoother consistency.
- Let the applesauce cool before transferring it to jars or containers.
- Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Enjoy warm or chilled on its own, or as a topping for other dishes.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition | Value |
Calories | 151kcal |
Carbohydrates | 39g |
Protein | 0g |
Fat | 0g |
Sugar | 34g |
Sodium | 8mg |
Smart Tips For The Best Crockpot Applesauce!
- Use a mix of apple varieties: Combining sweet and tart apples (like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) creates a deeper, more complex flavor. Using just one type can make the applesauce too bland or too sweet.
- Skip the water for extra-rich applesauce: Apples release plenty of juice as they cook. If you want a thicker, more intense flavor, leave out the water entirely and let the apples cook in their own juices.
- For caramel-like depth, brown the apples first: Quickly sautéing the apples in butter before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their natural sweetness and gives the applesauce a richer, almost caramelized taste.
- Want a smoother consistency? Blend warm, not hot: If using an immersion blender or food processor, let the applesauce cool slightly first. Blending hot applesauce can cause splattering and an uneven texture.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices: While pumpkin pie spice is a classic choice, try adding cardamom, nutmeg, or even a pinch of black pepper for a subtle, unexpected twist.
- Make it boozy for the adults: A splash of bourbon or spiced rum added in the last 30 minutes of cooking gives the applesauce a deep, warm complexity that pairs beautifully with desserts.
- Use it beyond just a side dish: Swirl it into oatmeal, use it as a topping for pancakes, mix it into muffin batter, or even serve it alongside roasted meats for a sweet-savory contrast.

John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.