Imagine a dessert so irresistibly delicious and effortlessly simple that it transforms your kitchen into a haven of sweet, aromatic bliss! This Crock Pot Cinnamon Strawberry Applesauce isn't just a recipe—it's a warm hug in a bowl that combines the classic comfort of homemade applesauce with a vibrant strawberry twist. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy parents, and anyone craving a nostalgic yet exciting dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the strawberries by removing the stems and slicing them into roughly equal-sized pieces.
- Peel the apples and dice them into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Place the sliced strawberries and diced apples into the crock pot, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the cooking vessel.
- Sprinkle the sugar and ground cinnamon over the fruit, ensuring an even distribution for balanced flavor.
- Drizzle the lemon juice over the fruit mixture, which will help prevent browning and add a subtle tangy brightness.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the temperature to low heat setting.
- Allow the fruit to cook slowly for approximately 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After cooking, use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve desired consistency - chunky or smooth.
- Let the applesauce cool to room temperature before transferring to storage containers.
- Refrigerate the applesauce and consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Tips
- Choose ripe, sweet strawberries and firm apples for the best flavor profile. Varieties like Gala or Fuji work wonderfully for applesauce.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender. For a chunkier texture, use a potato masher.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the natural sweetness of your fruits. Riper fruits may require less added sugar.
- The slow cooker's low and slow method helps develop deeper, more complex flavors compared to stovetop cooking.
- Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract to customize your applesauce.
- Store in airtight containers and enjoy within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and taste.
- This applesauce makes an excellent topping for pancakes, yogurt, or as a healthy snack on its own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
