Pumpkin Apple Soup

• 1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin
• 2 tart apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon Louisiana-style hot sauce
• 1 carton (32 ounces) chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 14 ounces smoked sausage, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup half-and-half cream
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Sliced apple, optional

1. In a 5-qt. slow cooker, combine the first seven ingredients. Stir in broth, salt and pepper. Cook, covered, on low until flavors are blended, 6-8 hours.
2. Add sausage, cream and brown sugar to slow cooker. Cook until heated through, 30-35 minutes. Discard bay leaves. If desired, serve with apple.

solidpack pumpkin, apples, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, hot sauce, chicken broth, salt, pepper, sausage, cream, brown sugar, apple

Taken from www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/pumpkin-apple-soup/ (may not work)