4lbs.apples,about 10 large, pared and cored (I like to use either Honeycrisps or MacIntosh)
¼ - ½cupsugar,Honeycrisps are sweeter so use the lesser amount of sugar
1teaspoonlemon juice
½teaspoonlemon zest
½-3/4teaspooncinnamon,depending on your love of cinnamon
½teaspoonnutmeg
Dash salt
1cupwater
Instructions
Prepare apples by paring and coring then slicing. Place in bottom of crockpot. Sprinkle with lemon juice and remaining spices.
Add water, cover, and cook 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. If you are home, stir once or twice during cooking time.
Allow to cool.
The applesauce will be slightly chunky. If you like your applesauce smooth, place in batches in blender and blend until smooth. Only fill blender half full at a time and repeat until all apples have been pureed.
Place in jars or other sealed container and store in refrigerator.
Notes
Stovetop Method: No crockpot, no problem! You can make this on the stove too! Place all ingredients in large pot with cover. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 20-30 minutes or until apples are tender. Mash with potato masher for a chunkier applesauce or puree in blender for a smoother applesauce. Do not put too much in a blender at one time. Only fill half full and puree in batches.