Description
This Slow Cooker Apple Butter is a rich, spiced spread that captures the essence of fall. Made with a blend of sweet and tart apples, it’s slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a deep, caramelized flavor. Perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or as a gift.
Ingredients
5–6 lbs mixed apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp allspice
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. 1. Prepare the apples: Core, peel, and chop the apples into roughly 1-inch chunks.
2. 2. Combine ingredients: Place the apple chunks into the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
3. 3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 10 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain temperature.
4. 4. Blend: After 10 hours, stir in the vanilla extract. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender.
5. 5. Thicken (optional): For a thicker consistency, cook the apple butter uncovered on HIGH for an additional 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. 6. Cool and store: Let the apple butter cool to room temperature before transferring to jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for up to a year. For long-term storage, process in a water bath canner following proper canning guidelines.
Notes
– Using a mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor complexity.
– No peeling is necessary; the peels break down during cooking and add to the depth of flavor.
– This recipe makes approximately 3 pints of apple butter.
– Ideal for gifting during the fall season.