Slow Cooker Apple Butter
This slow cooker apple butter recipe transforms fall flavors into a rich, velvety spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or even straight off the spoon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 hours
- Total Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pounds of apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (mix of Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice about 4 pounds of apples. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- Place the apple slices in the slow cooker, then sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and lemon juice over the top. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples should become soft and fragrant, breaking down into a chunky sauce.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree the apples into a silky consistency. If using a stand blender, let the apples cool slightly before blending in batches.
- Switch to high heat and cook uncovered for another 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, to thicken the apple butter and develop its rich flavor.
- Let the apple butter cool completely before transferring it to jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Taste your apple butter during the cooking process and adjust the spices or sweetness as needed. For thicker apple butter, extend the cooking time with the lid off to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 9
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: apple butter, slow cooker, fall recipe, homemade spread, comfort food