Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce is a warm, comforting twist on the classic applesauce, blending sweet pears and fragrant spices. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy snack or a flavorful side.

Ingredients

• 28 ounces (800 grams) apples, about 4 medium, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks
• 24 ounces (680 grams) pears, about 4 medium, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 2 tablespoons (25 grams) light brown sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the pieces of apples and pears in a large slow cooker.
2. Step 2: Sprinkle with the lemon juice and toss gently to coat thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Cut the vanilla bean in half and scrape the seeds into the slow cooker, then add the pods (or add 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste).
4. Step 4: Add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Toss gently to coat all the fruit and spices.
5. Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for about 6 hours or until the apples and pears are completely tender.
6. Step 6: Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and vanilla pods. Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the mixture to your desired smoothness, or transfer to a stand blender and puree.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• For a chunkier texture, pulse the applesauce briefly instead of blending completely smooth.
• Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar to add a different depth of sweetness.
• Add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors if desired.
• You can use frozen fruit if fresh apples or pears are not available; adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store the applesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the applesauce for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use only apples or only pears for this recipe?

Yes, you can use just apples or just pears if preferred, though combining both gives a balanced sweetness and flavor.

Do I have to use a slow cooker?

No, you can cook the fruit and spices on the stovetop in a covered pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until tender, but a slow cooker makes it hands-off and easy.

Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce Recipe

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This Slow Cooker Pear Applesauce is a comforting and fragrant twist on traditional applesauce. Combining the natural sweetness of apples and pears with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg, this recipe yields a smooth, flavorful sauce perfect for a wholesome snack or dessert. Using a slow cooker allows the fruits to meld gently, creating a deeply infused, naturally sweet treat with minimal effort.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 4 cups (1 quart) 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits

• 28 ounces (800 grams) apples – about 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks
• 24 ounces (680 grams) pears – about 4 medium pears, peeled, cored, and cut into large chunks

Flavorings and Spices

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
• 1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 2 tablespoons (25 grams) light brown sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit: Peel, core, and cut the apples and pears into large chunks to ensure even cooking and easy blending later.
2. Combine and coat: Place the apple and pear chunks into a large slow cooker. Sprinkle the lemon juice over the fruit and toss gently to coat thoroughly, preventing browning and adding a hint of tartness.
3. Add vanilla flavor: Cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the slow cooker. Add the pods as well for maximum aroma. Alternatively, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste if using that instead.
4. Mix in spices and sugar: Add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, freshly grated ginger, cardamom, ground cloves, and freshly grated nutmeg to the slow cooker. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed among the fruit.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Let the fruit cook for about 6 hours until the apples and pears are completely tender and soft to the touch.
6. Remove solids and blend: Carefully remove and discard the cinnamon stick and vanilla pods. Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree the mixture to your preferred smoothness. Alternatively, transfer the cooked fruit to a stand blender and puree until smooth.
7. Serve or store: Serve the applesauce immediately warm or let it cool. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

• For a chunkier texture, pulse the puree less or mash with a potato masher instead of fully blending.
• Adjust the brown sugar based on the sweetness of your fruit and personal preference.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the fruit gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until tender.
• The spices can be adjusted or omitted according to taste; cinnamon and vanilla are the most essential flavors.
• Serve chilled or warm; it’s delicious as a side, snack, or topping on yogurt or oatmeal.

Keywords: slow cooker pearsauce, slow cooker applesauce, pear applesauce recipe, homemade applesauce, slow cooker fruit sauce, fall dessert, slow cooker side dish