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Slow Cooker Apple Butter Recipe Easy Homemade Fall Spread Perfect for Cozy Mornings

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A cozy, slow cooker apple butter recipe that transforms simple apples and warm spices into a rich, spiced spread perfect for fall mornings. Easy to make with minimal prep and no peeling required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds mixed apples (such as Fuji and Granny Smith), cored and sliced, skins on
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 g)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)

Instructions

  1. Core and slice approximately 4 pounds (1.8 kg) of mixed apples. No need to peel.
  2. Add sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, water, and lemon juice into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. Optionally, gently swirl the mixture around hour 6 for even cooking.
  4. Once apples are tender and mixture thickened, use an immersion blender to puree until smooth or to desired texture.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract. Taste and add more sugar if desired. If too thick, add a splash of water and blend again.
  6. For thicker apple butter, cook uncovered on low for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  7. Transfer to clean glass jars or airtight containers. Let cool completely before sealing. Store in refrigerator up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Do not peel apples to save time and add rustic texture. Adding vanilla extract at the end preserves its aroma. If apple butter is too tart, add a pinch of salt to balance flavors. For thicker consistency, cook uncovered longer. Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor. Lemon juice prevents browning and brightens flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker apple butter, homemade apple butter, fall recipes, easy apple spread, cozy breakfast, slow cooker recipes, apple butter recipe