Peel and chop the apples.

Combine all ingredients except maple syrup in slow cooker.

Cook on high for 4 hours, stirring a few times while it cooks.

Puree the applesauce if desired (in a blender or with an immersion blender)

Cool and taste. If it is too tart for your taste, add the 2 Tbsp maple syrup til it tastes to your liking.

Divide between containers. Cover and store in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.