Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce Recipe

Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce is a warm, comforting treat that blends the sweetness of ripe pears with the tartness of apples for a naturally delicious sauce. Made in the slow cooker, this recipe requires minimal effort and allows the fruits to cook down to a perfectly smooth, flavorful puree. It’s an easy way to enjoy homemade applesauce with a fruity twist—ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pear applesauce is sweetened naturally by the fruits themselves, with no added sugars required. The slow cooking process lets the pears and apples meld together, creating a deliciously smooth texture. It’s a great way to use up seasonal fruit, and it’s versatile—perfect as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or just enjoyed on its own. The slow cooker makes it hands-off, so it’s an easy, hassle-free recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped

• 4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Fruit:
   Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into small chunks. This helps them cook down faster and ensures a smooth applesauce.

2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
   Place the chopped apples and pears into the slow cooker. Add the water, cinnamon, ginger, lemon juice (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to combine.

3. Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the fruit is soft and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Mash or Puree:
   Once the fruit is cooked down and soft, use a potato masher for a chunkier applesauce or an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the fruit mixture to a regular blender or food processor and blend until smooth.

5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Taste the applesauce and adjust the sweetness if needed. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little honey, maple syrup, or more cinnamon to taste. Serve warm or let it cool before storing.

Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4-6 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cook time is 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, so you’ll have this sweet treat ready in about 4-6 hours.

Variations
I like to:

• Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

• Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a little extra sweetness and texture.

• Use a combination of pears and apples with varying levels of sweetness for a more complex flavor profile.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a warmer spice flavor.

Storage/Reheating
Store the pear applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave a little room in the container for expansion as it freezes.

To reheat, warm the applesauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If it’s too thick after refrigerating, you can add a little water to thin it out.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits for this applesauce?
Yes! You can mix in other fruits such as peaches, plums, or even berries to create a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the type of fruit you use.

Can I make this without peeling the fruit?
You can! If you prefer a chunkier, more textured applesauce, you can leave the skins on. Just make sure to blend it well at the end to break down any skin.

Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! This pear applesauce is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for most dietary preferences.

Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce is an easy, comforting, and healthy treat that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you serve it as a topping, a side dish, or just as a snack, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pears and apples. The slow cooker makes it a simple, hands-off recipe that fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma!