Crock-a-Sauce

I live in the Midwest, so January through March is pretty much just one big Snow Day. Today, we are being treated to the blingy addition of freezing rain. So it seemed like the perfect time to share with all of you, this homemade applesauce recipe that was shared with me (holla, Cindy).

The fact that this is SO easy just makes it more delish!

This is all: 2 1/2 pounds Gala apples
4 pears
cinnamon
2 Tbsp of water

Peel, core and quarter your apples and pears...

Dump fruit into the crockpot, add a couple shakes of cinnamon and water...

Cook on low for 7 to 8 hrs (or 5hrs on high). When apples are fork tender -DING!- its done...

The volume reduces about half, but the fruit keeps its shape -- until you mash it...

...and mash it, and mash it. The fruit provides plenty of liquid (pears seems juicier than apples), so you can mash to your liking.

If you like chunky applesauce, you are done...but since I like mine creamy smooth, I use a hand blender to knock those lumps outta here (after all, this isnt mashed potatoes).

If you noticed, I did not mention the addition of sugar. That is up to you. I always wait until its done- and cooled enough to eat without burning your tongue- because it depends on how sweet the fruit might be, or your preference. I only add two Tbsp of brown sugar to the whole batch.

Giving credit to the original recipe giver (again, holla Cindy!) there can be one addition....
Add 3/4 cup of red hot candies. This will make is sweeter, more cinnamony...and pink!

This recipe makes almost 6 cups of applesauce. Here is the final texture comparisons. In the event your family doesnt devour this "fruit candy" quick enough, it freezes great!

Here's hoping that some homemade Crock-a-Sauce can make your winter storm a little yummier!