Crock Pot Chicken Sausage Bites, with Apples, Pears, and Cheddar

Step 1: Crock Pot ... Add the onions, apples, pears, sausages, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf, to a crock pot. Then, In a medium glass or microwave safe bowl; add the butter and melt on medium low heat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute; add the beer, apple cider, brown sugar, honey, brown mustard, salt, and pepper; and stir to combine. Pour into the crock pot, and mix to combine all the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook ... Cover and cook on low heat for 3 1/2-5 hours. Please remember, all crock pots are different; so, keep an eye on them. My larger crock pot takes 3 1/2 hours; however, my smaller crock, takes 4 1/2+ hours. You want the fruit to really break down; that is how you will know the dish is done. Half way through the cooking period, I gave it a stir if possible.

Step 3: Baguettes and Cheese ... As the crock pot is cooking away, prepare the sides. Thin slice the bread on an angle, and toast in a 400 degree oven, until golden brown on both sides. I often serve some of the bread toasted; and some not - just to give people an option. For the cheese, simply slice.

Step 4: Sausages and Fruit ... Remove the sausages from the crock pot and slice into thick rounds. Transfer to a bowl and cover to keep warm - and, make sure to remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.

Step 5: For the fruit; using a potato masher (or a fork), mash up the fruit and onions right in the crock pot. Then transfer to a serving bowl. You aren't looking for a 'creamy smooth' puree, just a light mash. Transfer to a small bowl, and cover to keep warm.

Step 6: Serve ... I like to serve the bowls of the fruit and sausages on a large platter surrounded with the baguette slices, other crackers, and the cheese. Now, there are a lot of ways to enjoy this. I let people just help themselves. This is perfect appetizer for a game/card; or movie night with friends. As I mentioned - a pot of soup and salad; along with this appetizer, is a perfect dinner with friends. ENJOY!