Monday Snack - Crockpot Applesauce

Last night I pulled out some homemade applesauce from the freezer. One bite and I remembered why I am never going back to the store bought stuff again. Applesauce is so easy to make and if you just happen to catch a killer deal on apples it is a great snack to stock up on. I freeze my applesauce but it can also be canned if you have a pressure canner. The trick to a good applesauce is of course the apple. Get the right apple and you don't even have to add sugar. I like gala, jonathons, or McIntosh for my applesauce. I just suggest an apple with sweetness and tartness. You can also combine varieties. I like to pair up a combo of Jonathons and McIntosh when it is apple season and I am buying apples by the box.

Here is my easy, and I mean so simple it is ridiculous, recipe.

8 apples, peeled cored and coarsely chopped
1/2 C water
1 tsp lemon juice (just to keep it from browning up too much)
Optional ingredients:
1/4 to 1/2 Cup sugar. (I tried my applesauce with sugar and it was way too sweet for me but experiment with your own favorite version)
Cinnamon to taste (I like a good cinnamon applesauce now and then.)

*Add chopped apples, water and lemon juice to crockpot (and sugar if you are using).
*Cook on high for 4 hours or low 6 to 8 hours until apples are tender and easily mashed.
*Stir in cinnamon during the last 15 minutes if using.
*Mash with a potato masher.
This makes about 8 servings. I freeze in freezer containers with 1/2 inch headspace.
Tip: My son loves his applesauce slightly frozen for a healthy sweet snack.