Crock Pot Applesauce

It's September! The fall baking season has kicked off in my household (even though it's still 90+ degrees out there). We visited our favorite Ellijay apple orchard last weekend and got a TON of apples. We always pick some, and go to the store and get a bag of their "seconds" which are slightly blemished apples for an amazing price. They are perfect for recipes like this one! 

What's easier than throwing a bunch of tasty apples in the crock pot with a couple other key ingredients and letting them do their thing?! The house smelled amazing by the afternoon when this was cooking. This recipe had the perfect consistency and flavor for my preference - serve this over pancakes, with ice cream, use in recipes, over apple cake, and of course just as is, with a spoon!

I used an immersion blender in mine, after it had mostly cooled in the crock pot. I like a fairly smooth consistency. You can also leave some of the peel on your apples, if you prefer the texture.

Crock Pot Applesauce adapted from I Heart Naptime

Ingredients
6 lbs apples, peeled and cored (cut into at least fourths)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup apple juice
1 TBS lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a crock pot on low heat for about 6 hours (or high for 3-4); until apples are completely broken down and turn to applesauce just by stirring.
2. Turn off heat and allow to cool. Process part / all of the sauce in a blender, or use an immersion blender, to achieve your preferred consistency.
3. Store in the refrigerator.