Slow Cooker Apple Butter: A Simple and Sweet Fall Treat

Few things signal the start of the cozy season like the rich, spiced aroma of apple butter. This Slow Cooker Apple Butter recipe is a no-fuss way to create a deeply flavorful spread right in your own kitchen. It requires minimal effort and fills your home with a wonderful scent all day long. This recipe is perfect for enjoying on toast, stirring into yogurt, or giving as a homemade gift.

Ingredients & What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to make a batch of your own delicious slow cooker apple butter.

• Apples (5 lbs): Any variety works well. Gala apples are a great choice.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup): This should be packed.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp): A classic and essential spice.
• Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp): It adds a warm, spicy flavor.
• Ground Cloves (¼ tsp): These contribute to a deep, autumnal aroma.
• Salt (2 dashes): This enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Butter

This recipe requires very little effort, so you can simply set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic.

Making the Slow Cooker Apple Butter

First, peel, core, and slice all of your apples. Now, add the prepared apples to the slow cooker. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir all of the ingredients together to combine them well. Place the lid on the slow cooker. You can cook the mixture on HIGH for 5 hours or on LOW for 8-10 hours.

Blending and Storing

Once the apples have cooked and are very soft, place them and any liquid that the apples have created into a blender. Cover the blender with its lid, and also place a towel on top of the lid to prevent any burns. Now, hold the lid on firmly while the blender is on. Pulse for about a minute, until you achieve a very smooth consistency.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Apple Butter

• Apple Choice: You can use a single type of apple, but using a mix of sweet and tart varieties will give you a more complex flavor profile.
• Spice Option: Instead of using individual spices, you can use 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice.
• Blender Safety: Blending hot liquids can be dangerous. Be sure to hold the lid on tightly and work in small batches if necessary.
• Storage: You can store the finished apple butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze it for up to a year.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter recipe is a simple and rewarding way to make a timeless treat. The deep, rich flavor and smooth texture are far superior to anything you can buy in a store. As a result, this will be your go-to recipe for the fall season.