Description
A rich, spiced, and incredibly smooth apple butter made in a slow cooker with zero active effort. This caramelized spread is perfect for gifting, toast, or yogurt.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 lbs apples (mixed tart and sweet, cored and chopped into 1-inch chunks)
- 1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Wash apples thoroughly. Core and chop into 1-inch chunks, leaving skins on for color and pectin. Place chunks in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples. Toss gently to distribute spices evenly.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until apples are extremely soft and falling apart.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using a food mill (to remove skins/seeds) or an immersion blender.
- Return the smooth mixture to the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH with the lid OFF for 1-2 hours to reduce and thicken until it darkens and holds its shape.
- Turn off heat. Stir in vanilla extract and butter. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Ladle into clean jars and seal. Let cool completely before serving as it will thicken further.
Notes
The reduction step (cooking uncovered) is crucial for thickening. Do not over-blend with an immersion blender as it can make the texture gluey. Apples vary in sweetness, so taste before adding full amount of sugar. Store in fridge for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Condiments
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 1
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: apple butter, slow cooker recipes, fall recipes, homemade gifts, cinnamon apples, easy spread, holiday baking