This recipe for easy crockpot applesauce is the perfect set it and forget it recipe. During fall apple season here in Sonoma County, California, I make this recipe often. Jars of this applesauce freeze very well too so we can enjoy applesauce any time of year!
Place apples in your crockpot and pour the water over them. Sprinkle in the salt, cover, and set the timer to 6 hours on low heat.
When the timer goes off, stir in the vanilla, and cinnamon. Taste your applesauce and stir in the lemon juice if you desire. If your apples were tart, you may not need the lemon juice. Most of the apples should have broken down, but there may be a few smaller pieces remaining. If you prefer smooth applesauce, blend with an immersion blender, or ladle the mixture into a blender to purée until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serve immediately, store in the refrigerator, or freeze until ready to eat. Enjoy!