Description
This Crock Pot Apple Butter for Canning is a rich, spiced spread made with apples, sugar, and warm spices. Perfect for preserving the flavors of fall, this easy slow cooker recipe yields a smooth, velvety apple butter that’s ideal for spreading on toast, muffins, or using as a baking filling. Canned apple butter makes a thoughtful homemade gift or a pantry staple for all year-round enjoyment. Enjoy the warm flavors of autumn with minimal effort!
Ingredients
6 pounds apples (such as McIntosh, Cortland, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Place the peeled, cored, and chopped apples into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add Sweeteners and Spices: In a medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Pour over the apples and stir to coat.
- Cook the Mixture: Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and dark brown.
- Blend to Desired Consistency: Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture. For chunkier apple butter, skip this step or blend partially.
- Continue Cooking Uncovered: Cook for 1-2 more hours uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in vanilla extract during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Prepare for Canning: Sterilize jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes.
- Fill the Jars: Ladle hot apple butter into jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Seal and Process: Secure the lids and process in a water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Let jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours, then store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Notes
Apple Variety: A mix of sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor.
Texture: Adjust the smoothness by blending to your desired consistency.
Altitude Adjustments: Increase processing time for higher altitudes according to USDA guidelines.
Storage: Unopened jars last for up to 1 year; opened jars should be refrigerated and used within 1 month.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-13 hours
- Category: Condiments Canning Fall Recipes
- Method: Slow Cooker Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5 pints
- Calories: Approximately 25 kcal per tablespoon
