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Slow Cooker Apple Butter Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter recipe transforms fresh apples into a rich, spiced spread that’s perfect for breads, muffins, pork chops, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. Slow-cooked to perfection with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this apple butter boasts a deep caramelized flavor and a smooth, velvety texture achieved with an immersion blender.

Ingredients

Apple Mixture

  • 6 1/2 pounds apples, peeled, cored and sliced

Spices and Sweeteners

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Finishing

  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Place the peeled, cored, and sliced apples in the slow cooker. In a medium bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Pour this spice and sugar mixture evenly over the apples and stir well to coat all the fruit.
  2. Cook the apple mixture: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 10 hours, stirring occasionally. Over this extended cooking time, the apples will soften and the mixture will thicken and develop a dark brown color indicative of caramelization.
  3. Add vanilla and cook uncovered: Remove the slow cooker lid and stir in the pure vanilla extract. Continue cooking uncovered on low for an additional 2 hours to further reduce the liquid and intensify flavor.
  4. Puree the apple butter: Using an immersion blender, blend the cooked apple mixture directly in the slow cooker until smooth and creamy, achieving a spreadable consistency without any chunks.
  5. Store the apple butter: Spoon the finished apple butter into sterile containers. Cover and refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
  6. Serve: Enjoy the apple butter spread on breads and muffins, alongside pork chops, or simply eat it straight with a spoon for a delicious treat.

Notes

  • Use a variety of apples like Fuji, Granny Smith, or Gala for a balanced flavor.
  • Stir occasionally during the initial 10-hour cook to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Sterilize your storage containers by boiling or using a dishwasher on a hot cycle to maximize shelf life.
  • Frozen apple butter can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  • Adjust sugar levels to taste depending on the tartness of your apples.

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