Irresistibly Delicious Traditional Apple Butter is a classic fall spread that captures the deep, spiced flavors of slow-cooked apples. This smooth and spreadable delight is perfect for slathering on toast, mixing into yogurt, or topping oatmeal. With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s a comforting treat that’s easy to make in a slow cooker. Enjoy the cozy, warm flavors of autumn with every spoonful of this irresistible apple butter!
Ingredients:
6 lbs apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup apple cider (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Apples:
Place your sliced apples in a large 6-quart slow cooker. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and apple cider (if using) to the cooker. Stir until the apples are evenly coated in the sugar and spice mixture.
Cook the Apple Butter:
Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours. Stir occasionally as the apples soften and turn dark brown. If the mixture looks too watery, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
Blend and Thicken:
Once the apples are fully softened, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. For a thicker consistency, cook on low with the lid slightly ajar for an additional 1-2 hours.
Finish and Store:
Stir in the vanilla extract for a final flavor boost. Allow the apple butter to cool, then transfer it to jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for extended storage.
Serving Tips:
Spread on Toast and Bagels: A classic choice—apple butter adds warmth and sweetness to toast, bagels, or even English muffins.
Topping for Biscuits and Scones: Elevate your morning biscuits or scones with a dollop of apple butter for an extra layer of flavor.
Yogurt and Oatmeal Stir-In: Mix a spoonful into plain yogurt or oatmeal to add natural sweetness and spice.
Pair with Cheese and Charcuterie: Apple butter is delicious alongside a cheese platter, especially with sharp cheeses like cheddar or tangy goat cheese.
Enhance Baked Goods: Use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies, add to muffins, or swirl into cake batter for an autumnal twist.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing for Longer Shelf Life: For extended storage, place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 6 months. To use, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Canning for Shelf Stability: If you’d like to can apple butter, follow proper canning procedures for safe preservation, including using sterilized jars and a water bath canner. Canned apple butter can last up to a year on the shelf.
Check for Freshness: Always check for changes in smell, color, or texture, especially if stored for a longer period.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I make apple butter without a slow cooker?
Yes! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make apple butter in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven. On the stovetop, cook the apples over low heat, stirring frequently, until they break down and thicken. In the oven, cook at 250°F (120°C) for about 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally, until you reach the desired consistency.
How do I know when the apple butter is done cooking?
Apple butter is ready when it reaches a deep brown color and thick, spreadable consistency. To test, place a small spoonful on a plate—if liquid doesn’t seep out around the edges, it’s done. You can continue cooking with the lid ajar if you’d like it even thicker.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. Reducing the sugar may result in a slightly less sweet apple butter, but the natural sugars from the apples will still lend a pleasant sweetness.
How should I thaw frozen apple butter?
Thaw frozen apple butter by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore the smooth consistency, and use as desired.
Conclusion:
This Irresistibly Delicious Traditional Apple Butter is a cozy, spiced spread that brings the warmth of fall to every bite. Perfectly versatile, it’s a wonderful addition to breakfasts, snacks, and desserts alike. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, homemade apple butter is worth every minute of slow-cooking. Enjoy it fresh or freeze a batch to savor all season long!
📖 Recipe:
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Irresistibly Delicious Traditional Apple Butter
- Total Time: 10-12 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Traditional apple butter, slow-cooked to perfection, offers a rich, spiced apple flavor that’s irresistibly smooth and spreadable. Perfect for toast, biscuits, and more, this fall favorite makes a versatile, sweet, and spiced addition to any breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
6 lbs apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup apple cider (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Place sliced apples in a large 6-quart slow cooker. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and optional apple cider. Stir to coat apples with spices and sugar.
- Cook the Apple Butter: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 10-12 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and dark brown. If the mixture appears too watery, remove the lid for the last hour to let excess liquid evaporate.
- Blend and Thicken: Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. For a thicker consistency, continue cooking with the lid ajar for 1-2 hours.
- Finish and Store: Stir in vanilla extract. Let the apple butter cool, then transfer it to jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Apple Choice: Sweet, firm apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best for balanced flavor.
Customizable Spices: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to your taste for a more or less spiced spread.
Storage Tip: Freeze any extra apple butter for up to 6 months to enjoy throughout the year.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 hours
- Category: Condiment, Spread
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 cups
- Calories: 40 kcal per tablespoon
