Name: Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce: Cozy Up with a Fall Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 800 grams Apples (About 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks.); 680 grams Pears (About 4 medium pears, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks.); 15 milliliters Lemon Juice (Prevents browning and enhances flavor.); 1 bean Vanilla Bean (Or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste.); 25 grams Brown Sugar (Adjust sweetness as needed.); 1 stick Cinnamon Stick (Infuses aromatic warmth.); 1 teaspoon Freshly Grated Ginger (Adds a zesty note.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cardamom (Offers a hint of spice complexity.); 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Contributes a warm, earthy flavor.); 0.25 teaspoon Freshly Grated Nutmeg (Adds warmth and fragrant notes.)

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, I find myself longing for that warm, comforting embrace of fall flavors. Nothing quite captures this sentiment like a jar of homemade Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce simmering away in my kitchen. This easy recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep before your trusty slow cooker works its magic, transforming simple fruits into a delicious, aromatic treat that’s pure bliss. Not only is this sauce a delightful way to use seasonal apples and pears, but it’s also incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it warm over vanilla ice cream or as a hearty side to roasted meats. With just a few adaptable ingredients and an enticing blend of spices, you’ll have a homemade delight that will transport you to cozy autumn afternoons. Are you ready to stir up some nostalgia?

Why Is This Applesauce So Special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires just 15 minutes of active prep, letting the slow cooker handle the rest.

Aromatic Bliss: The warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg fill your kitchen with a comforting autumn aroma.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it warm over vanilla ice cream, spread on toast, or as an accompaniment to roasted meats—there’s no wrong way!

Natural Sweetness: Made with fresh apples and pears, this applesauce is a healthy, low-calorie treat that packs a vitamin punch!

Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the sweetness with honey or maple syrup, ensuring it suits your taste perfectly.

If you love slow-cooked meals, consider trying these delicious recipes: Slow Cooker Beef and Slow Cooker Corned!

Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Apples – About 4 medium apples (800 grams) peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks; provides sweetness and body to the sauce.
Substitution Note: Can increase the quantity of pears if preferred.

• Pears – About 4 medium pears (680 grams) peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks; adds a unique flavor and natural sweetness.
Substitution Note: Increase the number of apples for a less pear-dominant flavor.

• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters); prevents browning and enhances flavor.
No substitutions recommended.

• Vanilla Bean – 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; adds rich flavor.
Substitution Note: Vanilla extract can be used, but add it after cooking.

• Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons (25 grams); adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Substitution Note: Maple syrup or honey can be used; add after cooking to adjust sweetness.

• Cinnamon Stick – 1 stick; infuses aromatic warmth.
No substitutions recommended.

• Freshly Grated Ginger – 1 teaspoon; adds a zesty note.
No substitutions recommended.

• Ground Cardamom – 1/2 teaspoon; offers a hint of spice complexity.
No substitutions recommended.

• Ground Cloves – 1/4 teaspoon; contributes a warm, earthy flavor.
No substitutions recommended.

• Freshly Grated Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon; adds warmth and fragrant notes.
No substitutions recommended.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce

Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
Begin by peeling and coring 4 medium apples and 4 medium pears. Cut them into large chunks and place them into your slow cooker. This combination of fruits creates a delightful balance of sweetness. The vibrant colors of the fruits will brighten your slow cooker, making it visually appealing right from the start.

Step 2: Add Lemon Juice
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice evenly over the fruit chunks in the slow cooker. This step not only prevents browning but enhances the overall flavor of your Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce. Gently toss the fruits to ensure each piece is coated with the zesty juice, which will help amplify their natural sweetness during cooking.

Step 3: Incorporate Vanilla
Next, take 1 vanilla bean and carefully split it down the middle. Scrape the seeds into the slow cooker and add the empty pods as well, or use 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste if preferred. The vanilla will infuse the applesauce with a rich, aromatic flavor, transforming your simple fruits into a gourmet treat that fills your kitchen with delightful scents.

Step 4: Mix in the Sweetness and Spices
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of brown sugar over the fruit mixture, alongside a cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, and the ground spices—1/2 teaspoon of cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon of cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. Toss everything gently with a wooden spoon until the spices and sugar are evenly distributed among the fruits, creating a fragrant and inviting blend.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow it to cook for about 6 hours. As the hours pass, the fruits will become incredibly tender, and the warm spices will fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Check for doneness by gently pressing the fruits; they should easily yield to your touch.

Step 6: Blend to Desired Consistency
Once the fruits are tender, remove the cinnamon stick and the vanilla pods. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until it reaches your desired smoothness, or carefully transfer portions to a stand blender. Remember to let the fruit cool slightly before blending if you’re using a stand blender, ensuring safety and preventing splattering.

Step 7: Serve or Store
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce warm or allow it to cool completely. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container, where it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This delectable sauce is perfect drizzled over vanilla ice cream or served alongside roasted meats, offering a touch of comfort any time of the year.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce

As the delightful aroma wafts through your home, envision a warm, inviting meal blossoming from this sweet treat.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness creates a delightful contrast to the sweet, spiced applesauce, enhancing your dining experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a beautiful creaminess that melts into the warm applesauce, creating a blissful dessert moment that’s impossible to resist.
Roasted Pork Chops: The savory, caramelized flavors of roasted pork complement the sweet and tangy notes of the applesauce, making for a hearty meal.
Pancakes or Waffles: Dripping with your favorite syrup, the soft pancakes or waffles become a canvas for the luscious pearsauce—perfect for a cozy brunch.
Oatmeal: Stirring in warm applesauce enriches your morning bowl with sweetness and spice, while also adding a nutritious boost to your breakfast.
Chai or Spiced Tea: The warm spices in your drink will harmonize beautifully with the flavors in the pearsauce, making for a comforting finish to any meal.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce

Fridge: Store your Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and delicious for your next enjoyment.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of applesauce in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months; just remember to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quick defrost. Stir to blend any separated liquid before serving.

Reheating: Warm the applesauce gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water if it seems too thick after storing. Enjoy it warm with your favorite dishes!

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead with this Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce can save you precious time and stress during busy weeks! You can prep the fruits (apples and pears) and mix them with lemon juice and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepared mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade applesauce, just transfer everything to the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours. This ensures that your fruits remain fresh and flavorful. By following these steps, you’ll have a warm, comforting fall treat ready to serve with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made the same day!

Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce: Creative Twists to Try

Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring delightful variations and substitutions that will enhance its flavors and fit your dietary needs.

Dairy-Free: Swap out any creamy vanilla accompaniment with coconut whipped cream to keep the dessert light and dairy-free.
Sweetness Swap: Instead of brown sugar, drizzle in maple syrup or honey after cooking for a clean, natural sweetness. This keeps the flavors fresh and bright.
Spiced Up: Give your applesauce an extra kick by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some ground ginger for a warming heat. It’s a fun way to cheer up the flavors on a chilly day!
Smooth Texture: For a nicely pureed sauce, blend it smoothly with an immersion blender, but if you’d like a rustic feel, simply mash it with a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
Flavorful Fruits: Mix in additional fruits like peaches or cranberries for a seasonal twist, which can create a delightful flavor explosion in each bite. Trial and error lead to the best discoveries in your kitchen!
Herbal Hints: Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a surprising herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with pork dishes.
Nutty Crunch: Top your warm applesauce with toasted nuts for an added crunch and protein, making it a more filling snack or dessert option.

If you enjoy making homemade delights, you might also love experimenting with Slow Cooker Beef or savoring the hearty flavors of Slow Cooker Corned. The kitchen is your playground—happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce

Right Fruit Choice: Use firm, sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp combined with juicy pears for the best flavor balance that enhances your slow cooker pearsauce.
Prep Right: Make sure your apple and pear chunks are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from getting mushy while others are still firm.
Blending Safety: If using a stand blender, let the mixture cool slightly to avoid hot splashes. Opt for an immersion blender for easier blending and less cleanup.
Sweetness Control: Taste the sauce before serving. You can adjust sweetness by adding a bit of maple syrup or honey after blending, personalizing your Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce to your liking.
Chunky Preference: If you enjoy a chunkier texture, simply mash the cooked mixture with a potato masher instead of blending it completely smooth.

Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples and pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for firm, sweet apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala, and juicy pears such as Bosc or Bartlett. Make sure they are slightly ripe but not overly soft to achieve a delightful balance in flavor and texture. Avoid any fruits that have bruises or dark spots, as they can affect your sauce’s quality.

What’s the best way to store Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce?
For refrigeration, simply transfer your cooled applesauce to an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the applesauce will expand when frozen!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce! Start by letting it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Lay the bags flat in your freezer for efficient storage. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for quick defrosting, and give it a good stir before serving.

What if my applesauce is too thick after cooking?
Very! If your applesauce ends up thicker than your liking, simply stir in a little water or apple juice over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon and add more as needed. If you prefer it chunkier, you can mash some of the apples and pears with a potato masher instead of blending.

Is this recipe safe for pets, such as dogs?
Sure! While apples and pears are generally safe for dogs in moderation, avoid any added sugars or spices, particularly cinnamon, which can upset their stomachs. Be cautious with portion sizes, and always consult your vet if you’re unsure. As for allergies, if you or anyone you’re serving has sensitivities, simply substitute ingredients like sweeteners as needed and ensure all elements are pet-friendly before giving any portions to your furry friends.