This Simple Apple Butter Made in the Crockpot transforms fresh apples into a rich, spiced spread with minimal effort. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a sweet, aromatic treat perfect for toast, pastries, or gifting, all from the comfort of your slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crockpot apple butter is a delightful, hands-off way to enjoy a homemade spread that’s bursting with warm, spiced apple flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, turning fresh apples into a thick, velvety butter with the cozy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg—perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into oatmeal, or gifting to friends. It’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients, and ideal for meal prep or fall gatherings. The intoxicating aroma will fill your home, making it a seasonal favorite that’s easy to make in large batches and store for months, getting better with time.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Choose Sweet Apples: Use a mix of sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for natural sweetness.
- Peel for Smoothness: Peeling apples ensures a silky texture; leave skins on for a rustic feel.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir every few hours to prevent sticking, especially toward the end.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste and add more sugar or honey if apples are tart.
- Cook Uncovered: Remove the lid in the last few hours to thicken the butter properly.
- Blend for Consistency: Use an immersion blender for a smooth finish or leave chunky if preferred.
- Low and Slow: Cook on low to develop deep flavors without burning the sugars.
- Sterilize Jars: Use clean jars for storage to extend shelf life if not refrigerating.
Simple Apple Butter Made in the Crockpot
Simple crockpot apple butter, rich and spiced, perfect for toast or gifting.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup apple cider
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 lbs apples (about 10-12 medium), peeled, cored, and sliced
Instructions
- Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples into thin wedges—don’t worry about perfection, they’ll cook down!
- Load the Crockpot: Place sliced apples in the slow cooker, filling it generously for that rich flavor.
- Add Sweetness: Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the apples, letting it nestle into the layers.
- Season with Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt, stirring gently to coat the apples.
- Pour in Liquids: Drizzle lemon juice and apple cider over the top, giving the mix a little zing.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours, until apples are soft and dark.
- Uncover to Thicken: Remove the lid for the last 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to reduce the mixture.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth, or leave chunky if you prefer.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract (if using) for a warm, sweet finish—let it cool slightly.
- Serve or Store: Spoon into jars or containers, and enjoy on toast or save for later treats!
Notes
- Mix apple varieties for a balanced flavor; sweeter apples need less sugar.
- Stir every few hours to prevent sticking, especially toward the end.
- Adjust spices to your taste—cinnamon can be your star player!
- Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
- This recipe can be canned for long-term storage with proper technique.
Nutrition Information
Yield
5Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 348Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 133mgCarbohydrates 91gFiber 10gSugar 76gProtein 1g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Apples (4 lbs): About 10-12 medium apples; Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best for sweetness.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds a warm, molasses-like sweetness; adjust to taste.
- Cinnamon (1 tbsp): Ground cinnamon provides a classic, spicy warmth.
- Nutmeg (½ tsp): Adds a subtle, nutty depth; freshly grated is ideal.
- Cloves (¼ tsp): Ground cloves bring a hint of spice; use sparingly.
- Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and aids preservation.
- Apple Cider (½ cup): Enhances apple flavor; substitute with water or juice if needed.
- Salt (¼ tsp): A pinch enhances all flavors without overpowering.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, optional): Adds a warm, sweet note; stir in at the end.
Variations and Substitutions
- Apple Varieties: Use Granny Smith for tartness or a mix for balanced flavor.
- Sweetener Swap: Replace brown sugar with white sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
- Spice Options: Add allspice or ginger for a different spice profile.
- Liquid Swap: Substitute apple cider with orange juice or extra lemon juice.
- No Sugar: Use naturally sweet apples and omit sugar for a healthier version.
- Chunky Texture: Skip blending for a rustic, apple-sauce-like consistency.
- Spiced Boost: Add a cinnamon stick or star anise during cooking for extra flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Naturally vegan; no substitutions needed.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month; stir before use.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 6 months; thaw in fridge before using.
- Canning: Process in sterilized jars using a water bath canner for 10 minutes for shelf stability up to 1 year.
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