Slow Cooker Cinnamon Applesauce

10 lbs. fresh apples, peeled, cored and cut into chunks
1 1/2 cups apple juice, apple cider or water, optional
1 cup brown or white sugar, optional
2 Tbsp. cinnamon (leave out for plain applesauce)

Place the apples in your slow cooker.

Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.

Pour in the juice.

Stir so everything is well combined.

Cook for 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low.

Uncover, and with a potato masher or  blan immersion blender, mash the applesauce until you get the consistency you want. 

Let the applesauce cool for 30 minutes if you would like to serve it warm, or chill in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

This recipe makes about 16 cups of applesauce.

Store leftover applesauce in a large mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks, or freeze in plastic freezer bags that will lay flat. Defrost as needed.