Description
This irresistibly delicious traditional apple butter recipe uses a slow cooker to transform fresh apples into a smooth, spiced spread perfect for toast, baking, or as a flavorful addition to various dishes. The long, slow cooking process caramelizes the sugars and spices, producing a rich and deeply flavored apple butter with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 6 lbs apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
Spices and Sugars
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup apple cider (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice 6 pounds of apples, choosing varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the sliced apples into a large 6-quart slow cooker. Add 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon salt, and if using, ½ cup apple cider. Stir well to evenly coat the apples with the sugars and spices.
- Cook the Apple Butter: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cook for 10 to 12 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and help the flavors meld. The apples should become very soft and develop a dark brown color. If the mixture seems too watery near the end, remove the lid during the last hour to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Blend and Thicken: Once the apples are tender and the mixture is browned, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree the apple mixture until completely smooth. For a thicker consistency, continue to cook with the lid slightly ajar for an additional 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Finish and Store: Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the blended apple butter for finishing flavor. Allow the apple butter to cool completely, then transfer it to jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer preservation.
Notes
- Using apple cider is optional but adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less or mash the apples by hand.
- The slow cooker cooking time may vary depending on appliance model—check softness as you approach the 10-hour mark.
- For safe canning and longer shelf life, follow proper sterilization and canning procedures.
- Apple butter pairs wonderfully with toast, biscuits, pancakes, or as a natural sweetener in recipes.
