Crockpot Applesauce

Ingredients (Makes about 6 cups)

1. 6–8 medium apples (any variety, organic if possible), peeled or unpeeled, cored, and chopped
2. 1 tspground cinnamon
3. ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
4. 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
5. 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or monk fruit sweetener (optional, adjust to taste)
6. ½ cup water or unsweetened apple juice (for slow-cooking)

Optional gut-boosting additions:

1. 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (anti-inflammatory)
2. A pinch of ground cloves or allspice

Directions

1. Prepare the Apples

   Wash and core the apples. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra fiber and polyphenols. Chop into even-sized pieces.

2. Add to Crockpot

   Place chopped apples in the slow cooker. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and water or apple juice.

3. Cook

   Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until apples are very soft.

4. Mash or Blend

   Use a potato masher for chunky applesauce, or blend with an immersion blender for smooth consistency.

5. Sweeten & Flavor 

   Stir in maple syrup or monk fruit if desired, and add vanilla extract. Taste and adjust spices as needed.

6. Cool & Store

   Let the applesauce cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips for Maximum Gut Benefits

1. Use organic apples to reduce pesticide exposure.
2. Keep the skins on if you can tolerate them—they contain most of the fiber and antioxidants.
3. Avoid adding refined sugar; if you need extra sweetness, use a small amount of maple syrup or monk fruit.
4. Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added probiotics.

Beyond enjoying this delicious crockpot applesauce, supporting your gut health with professional guidance can make a big difference. Functional Medicine Los Angeles practitioners focus on personalized nutrition and lifestyle strategies to optimize digestion, reduce inflammation, and improve overall wellness.

For those living nearby, functional medicine Toluca Lake clinics offer tailored approaches that complement gut-friendly recipes like this applesauce. From identifying food sensitivities to recommending natural supplements, these clinics provide guidance to help your digestive system function at its best.

Working with functional medicine doctors ensures that your diet and lifestyle choices are aligned with your unique needs. They can help create a holistic plan that incorporates nutrient-rich foods, healthy recipes, and mindful eating habits to support both digestion and long-term health.

By combining simple, fiber-packed recipes like crockpot applesauce with expert guidance from Functional Medicine Los Angeles, you can enhance your gut health, boost energy, and improve overall well-being. Small, consistent changes like these form the foundation for a balanced digestive system and a healthier lifestyle.

✅ Bottom line: Crockpot applesauce is a simple, natural, and gut-friendly way to enjoy apples any time. It’s easy to make in bulk, gentle on digestion, and provides both fiber and polyphenols to support your microbiome.