Crockpot Applesauce

We've been having some beautiful fall weather in Madison, as you can see from this picture I took at the arboretum.

It's been sunny, but not toooo cold- I can still wear a skirt if I want, but it still feels like the perfect time for hot drinks and apple pie. I finally got around to making the crockpot applesauce, and it was absolutely delicious, and made the apartment smell wonderful, too. Definitely a recipe to make again.

I started out with a recipe from my crockpot cookbook, but changed it a little as I went. I think you'll enjoy it, too.

Recipe for Crockpot Applesauce

3 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (9 or 10 medium sized)
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed
1/4 cup lemon juice
6 inches cinamon stick, broken to 1 inch pieces

Combine sliced apples, brown sugar, water, apple juice concentrate, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cover and cook on low heat setting for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3-4. Remove and discard cinnamon. Use a potato masher to coarsely mash apples.

If storing for later use, cool slightly. Store in airtight containers. Chill for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 8 months. For me, this recipe made just over enough to fill a 36 oz jar.