Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce: A Delicious Homemade Treat

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious homemade applesauce with a fruity twist, this Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce is the perfect recipe for you! Combining the natural sweetness of apples with the bright, tangy flavor of strawberries, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers a smooth, flavorful applesauce that’s far better than anything you’d buy at the store.

Not only is this Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up fresh or frozen strawberries and apples. Whether you serve it as a snack, dessert, or even a topping for pancakes and yogurt, this homemade applesauce is sure to become a family favorite.

 

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Key Ingredients & Substitutions
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Storage & Freezing Tips
• Serving Suggestions & Variations
• Nutritional Benefits
• Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce

Making applesauce in a slow cooker is one of the easiest ways to achieve a perfectly smooth, naturally sweetened fruit sauce. Here’s why this Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce stands out:

✅ No Preservatives or Additives – Unlike store-bought applesauce, this homemade version contains only fresh fruit and a touch of natural sweetener if desired.

✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick, healthy snacks throughout the week.

✅ Kid-Friendly & Versatile – Great for babies (as a first food), kids’ lunchboxes, or even as a dessert topping.

✅ Customizable Sweetness – Adjust the sugar to your liking or leave it out entirely for a sugar-free option.

✅ Hands-Off Cooking – Just prep the fruit, set the slow cooker, and let it do all the work!

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a few basic ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 7 apples (about 3-4 pounds) – Use sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness.
• 1 lb. fresh strawberries – Hulled and halved (frozen strawberries also work).
• ½ cup apple juice or water – Helps with cooking and prevents sticking.
• Sugar (optional, to taste) – Only needed if your fruit isn’t sweet enough.

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker – A standard Crock-Pot works perfectly.
• Whisk, potato masher, or blender – For achieving the desired consistency.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce

Step 1: Prep the Fruit

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples – No need to be precise; rough chunks are fine.
2. Hull and halve the strawberries – Remove the stems and cut larger berries in half.

Step 2: Cook in the Slow Cooker

1. Add the fruit to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the apple juice or water to prevent sticking.
3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 5 hours or LOW for 8 hours.

Step 3: Blend or Mash

1. Once the fruit is soft, whisk or mash until smooth.
2. For a smoother texture, blend in a food processor or with an immersion blender.

Step 4: Adjust Sweetness (Optional)

1. Taste the applesauce – If it’s too tart, add sugar 1 tablespoon at a time.
2. Vanilla extract can also enhance flavor without overpowering the strawberries.

Step 5: Serve or Store

• Enjoy warm or chilled!
• Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Storage & Freezing Tips

To keep your Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce fresh:

✔ Refrigerator Storage – Use glass jars or airtight containers for up to 1 week.
✔ Freezing Instructions – Leave 1-inch headspace in containers to allow for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ Thawing – Move frozen applesauce to the fridge 24 hours before serving.

Note: This recipe is not safe for canning due to varying acidity levels.

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of apples and strawberries slowly cooking in the kitchen. It brings back memories of fall festivals, grandma’s house, and the simple joy of homemade treats. This Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce takes you right back to those cozy, joy-filled moments—except it’s easier than ever to make.

Unlike the store-bought versions filled with preservatives, artificial flavors, or too much added sugar, this homemade recipe is crafted from only a handful of fresh ingredients. Just apples, strawberries, a bit of water or apple juice, and a dash of sweetness if needed. That’s it. Nothing else. Pure, wholesome goodness that tastes like it came straight from the orchard.

But why do so many people love this particular recipe?

Let’s dive into the reasons:

1. Unmatched Flavor and Freshness

Store-bought applesauce can’t compete with the vibrant flavor of this homemade version. By blending sweet apples with the tart brightness of strawberries, you get a layered taste that’s sweet, slightly tangy, and so satisfying. The slow cooker allows all those natural sugars and fruity aromas to meld perfectly.

And you get to control everything—how smooth it is, how sweet it is, and how strong the strawberry flavor is. Want it chunky? Just mash it. Want it silky smooth? Use a blender. The result is always uniquely yours.

2. So Simple, It Practically Cooks Itself

This is the definition of a “set it and forget it” recipe. Once the apples and strawberries are in the slow cooker with a splash of juice or water, you just walk away. No stirring, no boiling over, no watching the pot. After a few hours, your house smells incredible, and your applesauce is ready to enjoy.

It’s one of the easiest recipes you can make—perfect for anyone, no matter your cooking skills.

3. Naturally Healthy and Guilt-Free

We’re talking real fruit, fiber, vitamin C, and zero added fat. This is one of those rare treats that feels indulgent but is actually doing your body good. It supports digestion, boosts your immunity, and gives you a nice energy lift without any processed sugar crash.

And it’s perfect for all ages—from toddlers just starting on solids to grandparents looking for gentle, nutritious snacks.

4. Great for Meal Prep and Zero Waste

Have apples or strawberries that are looking a little soft? Don’t toss them—turn them into this applesauce! It’s an excellent way to use up ripe fruit. You can make a big batch and keep it in the fridge or freezer, so you always have a quick, healthy snack or topping ready to go.

This recipe is also great for avoiding food waste and stretching your grocery budget.

5. A Family Favorite, Every Time

Whether you serve it warm or cold, plain or with a swirl of yogurt, this applesauce brings smiles to every table. It’s a lunchbox hit, a cozy after-school snack, or a light dessert that finishes dinner just right. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

How to Serve:

• As a snack – Enjoy it straight from the jar!
• With oatmeal or yogurt – Swirl it into breakfast bowls.
• On pancakes or waffles – A healthier alternative to syrup.
• As a dessert topping – Pairs well with ice cream or pound cake.

Recipe Variations:

• Sugar-Free Option – Skip the sugar for a naturally sweetened version.
• Spiced Applesauce – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (though it may dull the strawberry flavor).
• Mixed Berry Applesauce – Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries.

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Nutritional Benefits of Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce

This homemade applesauce is low in calories but packed with nutrients:

• High in Fiber – Supports digestion.
• Rich in Vitamin C – Boosts immunity.
• No Added Fat – A guilt-free snack.

Nutrition per serving (approx.):

• Calories: 86
• Carbs: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 17g (natural fruit sugars)
• Vitamin C: 33mg (37% DV)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work, but fresh ones provide the best flavor.

2. Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling ensures a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for extra fiber (just blend well).

3. Can I add cinnamon?

It’s not recommended—cinnamon can overpower the strawberry flavor and darken the color.

4. How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 1 week in an airtight container.

5. Can I can this applesauce?

No, this recipe isn’t formulated for safe canning.

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Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Strawberry Applesauce is a simple, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy homemade fruit sauce without any artificial ingredients. With just a few steps and minimal effort, you can create a sweet, tangy, and smooth applesauce that’s perfect for snacks, desserts, or even baby food.