Experience the rich, spiced flavors of autumn with this easy and delicious Crockpot Apple Butter recipe. Made with a mix of sweet and tart apples, this recipe will fill your home with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or as a topping for desserts, this apple butter is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
5 lbs apples (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties), peeled, cored, and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
Peel, core, and chop the apples into chunks. You should have about 10 cups of chopped apples.
Place the chopped apples into the crockpot.
Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples will release their juices and become very tender.
Once the apples are very tender and cooked down, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
Continue cooking the apple butter, uncovered, on low heat for an additional 1-2 hours to thicken to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Let the apple butter cool completely. Transfer to clean, sterilized jars or containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage. For canning, follow proper canning procedures to preserve for several months.
Spread Crockpot Apple Butter on toast, biscuits, or use it as a topping or filling for desserts. Enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of homemade apple butter!
Serving Tips:
Spread on Toast or Biscuits: Enjoy a comforting breakfast by spreading Crockpot Apple Butter on freshly toasted bread or warm biscuits.
Use as a Dessert Topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles for a delightful autumn-inspired treat.
Pair with Cheese: Serve alongside a cheese board with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a delicious sweet-savory contrast.
Incorporate into Recipes: Use as a filling for hand pies, turnovers, or thumbprint cookies for a burst of apple flavor.
Gift Idea: Package in decorative jars with ribbon for homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store cooled apple butter in clean, sterilized jars or airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: For longer storage, apple butter can be frozen. Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Canning: If you prefer to preserve apple butter for several months, follow proper canning procedures. Use sterilized jars, process according to recommended times for your altitude, and ensure proper sealing.
Labeling: Always label your jars with the contents and date of preparation for easy reference.
Avoid Contamination: Use clean utensils when scooping out apple butter to prevent introducing bacteria and prolong its shelf life.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, using a mix of sweet and tart apples is recommended to achieve a balanced flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala work well together. The combination of flavors will enhance the overall taste of the apple butter.
How can I tell when the apple butter is ready?
The apple butter is ready when the apples have broken down completely, and the mixture is thick and smooth. If using an immersion blender, blend until you reach the desired consistency. If using a potato masher, you can leave some chunks for texture. For the final thickening step, cook uncovered until it reaches the thickness you prefer.
What are the proper canning procedures for apple butter?
To can apple butter, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes. Fill the jars with hot apple butter, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary). Remove and let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check the seals before storing.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste preference. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may affect the sweetness and overall flavor balance of the apple butter. You can start by reducing each type of sugar by a quarter and then adjust to taste as the apples cook down. Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also be used as alternatives, though they will slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Apple Butter recipe yields a delicious spread that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Perfect for holiday gifts or enjoying throughout the season, this apple butter is a must-try for any home cook.
📖 Recipe:
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Crockpot Apple Butter
- Total Time: 8-12 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4-5 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, spiced flavors of autumn with this easy Crockpot Apple Butter recipe. Perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or using as a topping for desserts, this apple butter captures the essence of fall in every bite. With a blend of sweet and tart apples, and a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this homemade apple butter is sure to become a family favorite. Ideal for gifting or enjoying at home, this slow-cooked delight is both delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
5 lbs apples (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties), peeled, cored, and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into chunks. You should have about 10 cups of chopped apples.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
- Place the chopped apples into the crockpot.
- Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples will release their juices and become very tender.
- Blend or Mash:
- Once the apples are very tender and cooked down, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
- Thicken the Apple Butter:
- Continue cooking the apple butter, uncovered, on low heat for an additional 1-2 hours to thicken to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Store or Can:
- Let the apple butter cool completely. Transfer to clean, sterilized jars or containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage. For canning, follow proper canning procedures to preserve for several months.
- Enjoy:
- Spread Crockpot Apple Butter on toast, biscuits, or use it as a topping or filling for desserts. Enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of homemade apple butter!
Notes
Apple Variety: Using a mix of sweet and tart apples gives a balanced flavor.
Texture Preference: Blend thoroughly for a smooth texture or mash for a chunkier consistency.
Storage: Properly stored apple butter can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge or several months if canned.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-12 hours
- Category: Spreads and Sauces
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 cups
