Ingredients

• 10-12 medium-to-large crisp organic *apples
• 1 1/4 cups 100% pure unfiltered organic apple juice
• 1/4 cup filtered water

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Peel and core apples. Cut into one-inch chunks and place in crockpot.
2. In a 2-cup glass measuring cup (or small bowl), whisk together apple juice, water, maple syrup, lemon juice and cinnamon. Pour over apple chunks.
3. Cover crockpot and cook on low about 4 hours, until apples are very soft and easily fall apart when mashed with a fork.
4. Mash apples to desired consistency using a potato masher, an immersion blender, or pulse-puree in batches in a food processor. (If using the food processor, transfer applesauce in batches to a large bowl.)
5. If applesauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of filtered water and stir well. Continue adding a couple of tablespoons of water at a time until you reach desired thickness. (I usually need to add about ¼ to ½ cup of water to thin it out a bit.)
6. Note: Applesauce will become sweeter as it cools. We prefer just a hint of cinnamon, but feel free to season to taste with additional ground cinnamon, if desired.
7. Place applesauce in airtight containers and store in refrigerator. Makes a delicious snack, or side dish for virtually any meal!

Notes