Apple Butter is a velvety, spiced fruit spread that captures the essence of fall. Made by slow-cooking apples with sugar and warm spices, this comforting condiment is perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or stirring into oatmeal. Unlike regular jam or applesauce, Apple Butter has a deep, caramelized flavor and smooth texture that makes it irresistible.
What sets Apple Butter apart is the way it transforms humble apples into something extraordinary. By simmering for hours, the apples break down into a thick, flavorful spread that’s sweet, tangy, and fragrant with cinnamon and cloves. It’s a simple yet rewarding recipe that fills your home with the cozy aroma of autumn.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich, Spiced Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and apples creates a warm, inviting taste.
• Easy to Make: The slow cooker does all the work, requiring minimal effort.
• Versatile: Use it as a spread, dip, or even an ingredient in baked goods.
Ingredients
• 5 ½ pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup white sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare and Combine Ingredients
1. Place the peeled, cored, and chopped apples into your crock pot.
2. Add the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt to the apples. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Start Cooking on High
1. Cover the crock pot and cook the mixture on high heat for 1 hour. This initial stage helps to release the juices from the apples.
Step 3: Slow Cook on Low
1. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 10-11 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the mixture cooks evenly. The apple butter will thicken and turn a rich, dark brown.
Step 4: Final Hour of Cooking
1. Uncover the crock pot and let the apple butter cook on low for 1 additional hour.
2. For a smoother consistency, use a whisk to stir the apple butter during this final stage.
Step 5: Store the Apple Butter
1. Once the apple butter is done, spoon it into clean freezer-safe containers or jars.
2. Allow it to cool before covering and refrigerating or freezing.
Tips
• Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the mixture during cooking and add more sugar if needed, but keep in mind that the natural sweetness of the apples intensifies as they cook.
• Choosing Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Fuji) for a balanced flavor.
• Smoother Texture: If you prefer a silky texture, blend the apple butter with an immersion blender or food processor before storing.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Apple Butter is a timeless recipe that brings comfort to any season. Its deep, spiced flavors and velvety texture make it a perfect addition to your breakfast table or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Whether you spread it on warm bread, swirl it into yogurt, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful, this Apple Butter will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
