Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Slow Cooker Apple Butter Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 34 reviews
  • Author: Mariam
  • Prep Time: 0h 30m
  • Cook Time: 12h 0m
  • Total Time: 12h 30m
  • Yield: Approximately 6 cups of apple butter
  • Category: Spread
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter recipe transforms fresh apples into a thick, rich, and flavorful spread infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Cooked low and slow in a crockpot, this apple butter is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting during the holidays. The long cooking time intensifies the natural sweetness of the apples, while the vanilla extract adds a delightful finishing touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 6 ½ pounds apples – peeled, cored, and sliced

Sugars

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

Spices & Flavorings

  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking throughout the process.
  2. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place the sliced apples into the slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar and brown sugar over the apples to begin sweetening the mixture.
  3. Add spices: Sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt evenly over the sugared apples to infuse the spread with warm, aromatic flavors.
  4. Mix thoroughly: Stir the apples and spices together until all slices are completely coated with the sugar and spice blend for a uniform taste.
  5. Cook covered on low: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is a thick and rich consistency.
  6. Add vanilla extract: After 10 hours, remove the lid and stir the apple mixture while incorporating the vanilla extract for a smooth, fragrant finish.
  7. Continue to cook uncovered: Cook on low for an additional 2 hours without the lid to allow the apple butter to thicken further through evaporation.
  8. Blend for smooth texture: Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree the apple butter until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a stand blender and blend thoroughly.
  9. Cool the apple butter: Allow the apple butter to cool completely before transferring it to sterile containers or jars for storage.
  10. Store properly: Refrigerate the apple butter for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for longer shelf life, making it ready to enjoy whenever desired.

Notes

  • Using a variety of apples (e.g., Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala) can add depth to the flavor.
  • Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the apple butter from sticking to the base of the slow cooker.
  • The thicker you cook it, the more concentrated the flavors become—adjust cooking times if you prefer a thinner consistency.
  • Make sure jars or containers are sterilized before storing to prevent spoilage.
  • This apple butter is excellent on toast, muffins, pancakes, or as a flavorful addition to yogurt and oatmeal.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://quickcookingmagic.com/slow-cooker-apple-butter-recipe/