Vanilla Applesauce + Applesauce Toppings Bar
INGREDIENTS
- 3 pounds apple, peeled and cut in chunks
- 1/2 cup sugar, optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 pinch salt
- (Optional) Toppings Bar Ingredients: chia, flax seeds, hemp seeds, toasted walnuts, sesame seeds, raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries, fresh berries, cinnamon, pie spice, honey, maple syrup
DIRECTIONS
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Place the peeled apple chunks in the slow cooker and sprinkle with sugar, lemon, vanilla and salt, then stir to mix. Cover the cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.
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Uncover the cooker and use a potato masher to coarsely mash the apples, or if you want a really smooth sauce, you can puree in a food processor or blender. (Be careful when handling the hot apples and juice, cover the lid of the processor or blender with a folded towel and hold it closed as you turn on the machine.)
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Transfer the applesauce to sterilized jars and let cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Recipe courtesy of U.S. Apple Association