As a housewife, I take a lot of pride in making my house a home for my family.  One of my favorite ways to do that, is to make our home smell delicious.  I love to have something scrumptious cooking when my husband comes home from work or my kids get back from school.

In the fall, one of the best {and easiest} ways to do that is to make homemade applesauce in the slow cooker.  This is also a great project for younger kids to help with.

Ingredients:

• 1 dozen medium-sized apples
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup apple juice
• 4 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. vanilla

Directions:

1. Peel, core and slice the apples and place them in your crock-pot.
2. Add remaining ingredients.
3. Mix well and cook on low for four to six hours, checking periodically to scrape sides if necessary.
4. Once apples have softened and begin falling apart, mix with a wooden spoon.  If you want a smoother consistency, mash the larger pieces and continue stirring.  If you want a chunkier version, just give it a quick stir!
5. Let simmer for an additional hour.

Yields 4-6 servings or one regular sized jar.

Know someone moving into a new home?  Pack a basket of apples and a jar of homemade applesauce for the perfect housewarming gift!