Description
A cheap, single-serve friendly applesauce made in a slow cooker with minimal ingredients. This recipe costs less than $1 per serving and allows for customizable sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large apples (approx. 2.5 lbs / 1.13 kg), cored and chopped into 1-inch chunks (Gala or Fuji recommended)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Wash the apples thoroughly. Core them and chop into 1-inch chunks. Place the chunks into the slow cooker.
- Pour the water over the apples. Add the lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and sugar/maple syrup if using. Stir gently to coat the apples.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW. Cook for 4-6 hours until the apples are tender enough to crush easily with a fork.
- Remove the lid and mash the apples directly in the pot using a fork or potato masher to desired consistency (chunky or smooth).
- Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness or thickness if needed. If too thin, cook uncovered on HIGH for 30 minutes to reduce.
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature before dividing into containers for storage.
Notes
You do not need to peel the apples unless you prefer a smooth texture without skins. Leaving skins on adds fiber. If using tart apples like Granny Smith, you must add sugar or maple syrup. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 27
- Sodium: 2
- Fat: 0.2
- Carbohydrates: 31
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 0.5
Keywords: budget-friendly, crockpot applesauce, slow cooker recipe, single serve, healthy snack, vegan, gluten-free, cheap recipes