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Cozy Slow Cooker Apple Butter Recipe from Scratch Easy and Homemade

slow cooker apple butter - featured image

This easy slow cooker apple butter recipe creates a rich, spiced, and smooth spread made from simple ingredients. Perfect for cozy breakfasts, snacks, or gifts, it offers deep homemade flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 pounds (about 12 medium) apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and chop about 6 pounds (2.7 kg) of apples into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
  2. Place the chopped apples into the slow cooker. Add 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g) packed brown sugar, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 cup (120 ml) water. Stir gently to combine everything. This step takes about 5 minutes.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. Check around hour 6 or 7 to stir gently and see how the apples are breaking down. Add a splash of water if the mixture looks dry.
  4. Once the apples are completely soft and the mixture has thickened, use an immersion blender to puree the apple butter directly in the slow cooker. Blend until smooth or leave a few chunks if you prefer some texture. This takes about 5 minutes.
  5. Taste your apple butter. If you want it sweeter, add a little more sugar or a drizzle of honey. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract if using. Cook uncovered on low for an additional 30-60 minutes to let the flavors meld and the mixture thicken further.
  6. Let the apple butter cool completely before transferring to clean jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Peeling apples is recommended for a smooth texture but can be skipped for a rustic feel. Mix sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith for balanced flavor. Cook on low to avoid burning and allow flavors to meld. Adjust sweetness and spices to taste. If apple butter is too runny after blending, cook uncovered longer to thicken. Can be made on stovetop with frequent stirring if no slow cooker is available.

Nutrition

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