Homemade Applesauce #2 in the Slow Cooker: Recipe Revised

Each year we mark the beginning of fall with a trip to the apple orchards.  It is fun to drive through the trees as we make our way to the fruit stand displaying bins of apples.  There are so many varieties from which to choose that it renders me unable to choose. So, we usually bring home a box of mixed varieties such as Braeburn, Jonagold, Fuji, Red Delicious, McIntosh, etc.  Sadly, we were not able to make the trip this year but I still found a variety of apples at the Farmer's Market.

I usually start the season by making homemade applesauce in the slow cooker.  I didn't want to break the tradition but I did want to try a new recipe.  It was time to set Mom's recipe to the side.  I was inspired by Ina's recipe that I found on Food Network.  I didn't follow her method, as she baked the apples.  It is still warm here so I used the slow cooker.


Homemade Applesauce #2 in the Slow Cooker

1 large navel orange, juiced
1/2 lemon, juiced 
14 apples, (about 6 pounds) mixed variety, such as McIntosh, Braeburn, Fuji, Gala, Jonagold, etc., peeled, cored, diced
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed 
4 tablespoons unsalted butter 
1 Tbsp Boiled Cider from King Arthur Flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

Place the orange juice and the lemon juice in a large bowl.  Add the apple dice and toss them in the juice.  Pour the mixture into the slow cooker.  

Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top along with the cinnamon and allspice.  Add the tablespoon of Boiled Cider and stir the mixture.

Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 8 hours.  When finished, use a potato masher to get the sauce to the desired consistency.

Serve warm or cold.  Store in a air-tight container in the refrigerator.

Note: The recipe is easily adjusted.  As it cooks down, it produces more liquid.  But after a few hours if you notice that sauce needs more liquid, add just a little additional orange juice or water.  

PRINTABLE RECIPE


We loved the addition of the citrus and the fact that this was not overly sweet.  The Boiled Cider enhanced the sauce's flavor. It was perfect.  Now, if I could just put my spoon away!

Comments

  1. Visiting apple orchards in the early fall is a marvelous tradition. I love that you've tried Ina's recipe too.
    Sam

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  2. Sounds like pork chops will be on the menu soon-enjoy:@)

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  3. Nice to visit the orchards in the fall. For my whole life, I've tried to become a fan of applesauce, even making my own, but alas I failed so I hope you enjoy yours.

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  4. Kate, Love homemade applesauce in the fall! Its so flavorful as compared to that store bought stuff! Thanks for the new recipe! Take Care, Big Daddy Dave

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