If you’re looking for a way to fill your home with the aroma of Autumn, slow cooker apple butter is the answer. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s a delightful gift for holiday gatherings.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 hours
• Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 pints

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Makes your kitchen smell incredible all day.
• Hands-off cooking with minimal prep work.
• Perfect for holiday gifting or a hostess delight.
• Versatile spread for bread, muffins, or savory dishes.

Ingredients

• 6 1/2 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and sliced): Use a sweet variety like Fuji or Gala for natural sweetness and balanced flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Helps in caramelization and enhances the sweet apple flavor.
• 1 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed): Adds moisture and a hint of molasses. Adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic undertones essential to apple butter.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: Freshly grated is ideal for potency, but pre-ground works as a substitute.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a spicy depth that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, sweet note. Substitute with vanilla bean paste for a stronger vanilla flavor.

How to Make It

Step 1: Mix and Start

Place the apple slices in a slow cooker. In a medium bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Pour this mixture over the apples, ensuring they are evenly coated. The slow cooking process allows the sugars to caramelize, infusing the apples with deep, rich flavors.

Step 2: Slow and Steady

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 10 hours. During this time, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the heat and spices. Gradually, the apples will break down and darken in color, creating a thick, luscious mixture.

Step 3: Final Touches

Uncover the slow cooker and stir in the vanilla extract, which enhances the complex flavors developed during the cooking. Continue cooking uncovered on low for another 2 hours to thicken the mixture further.

Step 4: Purée to Perfection

Using an immersion blender, blend the apple mixture until smooth and velvety. This step ensures even consistency throughout, creating a perfect spreadable apple butter.

Step 5: Store and Serve

Spoon the apple butter into sterile containers. Once cooled, cover them and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for future use. This apple butter is versatile, excellent on bread or muffins, and pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like pork chops.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp can add complexity to the flavor. Just ensure you use sweeter varieties to keep the natural balance.

How can I thicken the apple butter if it’s too runny?

If your apple butter is too runny after the cooking time, continue to cook it uncovered, stirring occasionally. The evaporation will help it thicken to your desired consistency.

What’s the best way to store apple butter?

For long-term storage, freeze the apple butter in an airtight container or use canning methods to preserve it for several months.