Slow Cooker Apple Butter

5 from 53 votes

Slow Cooker Apple Butter is not only easy to prepare but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect anytime, from cozy fall breakfasts to festive holiday gatherings, this apple butter is sure to impress with its rich flavors and versatility.

Prep Time10

Cook Time5

Total Time5 10

Course: Condiments

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings: servings

Calories: 275kcal

Author: Kristen Wood

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Ingredients

5 pounds apples of choice I like to use Granny Smith
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar of choice I like to use a mix of maple sugar and white sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt to a slow cooker.
Cook on high for 5 hours or low for 10 hours.
Add the vanilla extract. Mix well.
Use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend the apple butter mixture until smooth and creamy. If you would like an apple butter with a coarser texture, you can use a hand masher instead until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve right away or keep stored in an airtight Mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Alternatively, you can freeze apple butter for up to 6 months.
Enjoy!

Video

Notes

Which Apples?: While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, don't hesitate to experiment with different types of apples. Mixing varieties can create a unique blend of flavors and textures. Consider using a combination of tart and sweet apples for a well-rounded taste.

Sugar Adjustments: If you prefer a less sweet apple butter, reduce the sugar quantity or use a sugar substitute. Remember, the natural sweetness of the apples also contributes to the overall flavor.

Sugar Alternatives: Maple sugar is expensive but is absolutely amazing in apple butter (or any apple dessert for that matter). If you happen to have some on hand, this a great recipe to use it in! Otherwise, coconut sugar, brown sugar and regular white granulated sugar are delicious as well.

Balance Your Spices: The key to a great apple butter is in the balance of spices. Don't overpower it with too much cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. Start with the recipe's recommended amounts, then adjust according to your taste preferences.

Slow and Steady: The beauty of using a slow cooker is in the gradual cooking process, which allows flavors to develop fully. Resist the urge to speed up the process by setting the cooker on a higher temperature. Patience is vital here.

Consistency is Key: Use an immersion blender for a smooth, creamy texture. If you don't have one, a regular blender works fine, but be cautious with the hot mixture. For a chunkier apple butter, a potato masher will do the trick.

Stir in Vanilla at the End: Adding vanilla extract towards the end of the cooking process ensures that its flavor remains potent and doesn't evaporate during the long cooking time.

Make it Thicker: If the apple butter isn't quite thick enough, allow it to cook on low in the slow cooker for 2 more hours with the lid off.

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Once cooled, transfer the apple butter into airtight jars or containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. This method is perfect if you plan to use the apple butter regularly for your daily meals and snacks.

Freeze: For longer storage, apple butter can be frozen. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space at the top as it will expand when frozen. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to use it.

Nutrition