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