Apple Confit (Crock Pot)

From EatingWell: January/February 2008: Sturdy apples are flavored with cinnamon and vanilla in this slow cooker apple compote. Top with low-fat vanilla ice cream and a sprinkling of toasted walnuts for dessert.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 1/2 cup servings

Ingredients

• 3  lbs  firm apples (cooking or baking apples, such as Granny Smith, Northern Spy, Rome or Golden Delicious)
• 1⁄4 cup sugar
• 1⁄2-1  teaspoon ground cinnamon, to taste
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Peel the apples and slice 1/4 inch thick. (You should have about 9 cups.)
2. Place the apples in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker.
3. Add sugar and cinnamon to taste, and toss to coat well.
4. Cover and cook until the apples are very tender and almost translucent, but not pureed, 2 to 2 1/2 hours on high or 4 to 4 1/2 hours on low.
5. Stir in vanilla.
6. Transfer to a bowl and let cool slightly.
7. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
8. Serve with low-fat vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt if desired.