slow cook apple butter recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cook apple butter recipe
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The Best slow cook apple butter recipe

I’ve been making this slow cook apple butter recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a traditional dish that originated in Europe, where apples were cooked down into a rich, spreadable paste.

The process of cooking the apples slowly over low heat breaks down the cell walls, releasing the natural sugars and creating a deep, velvety texture. It’s a game-changer for toast, biscuits, or even using as a filling for cakes and pastries.

My family loves it when I make a big batch and we use it throughout the week. It’s also a great way to preserve apples and enjoy them year-round.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort – just throw some apples in a pot and let the slow cooker do the rest. We love using this recipe for family gatherings and special occasions because it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

And as an added bonus, it’s packed with antioxidants and fiber from the apples, making it a relatively healthy treat. I’ve experimented with different spices and sweeteners over the years, but this basic recipe remains my favorite.

It’s perfect for everyday eating or as a special treat on holidays and birthdays. My kids adore helping me make this recipe because they get to stir the pot and smell the delicious aroma all day long.

Slow Cook Apple Butter

Slow Cook Apple Butter

4.9 from 1965 votes

This Slow Cook Apple Butter is a delicious, homemade spread made with fresh apples, brown sugar, and warm spices. It is easy to make and perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or using as a topping for oatmeal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

6 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup apple cider

👨‍🍳Directions

1Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2Place the chopped apples in the slow cooker.
3Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to the slow cooker.
4Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5Pour in apple cider.
6Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the apple mixture is soft and breaks apart easily with a spoon.
7Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
8Once the apples are soft, use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth.
9If using a food processor, blend in batches and be careful when transferring the hot mixture.
10The apple butter should be thick and spreadable.
11Return the pureed apple butter to the slow cooker and cook on high heat for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12This will help to reduce the mixture and thicken it further.
13The apple butter is ready when it reaches your desired consistency.
14Spoon into jars and let it cool to room temperature before sealing.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Peeler
Corer
Chopping knife
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Mixing spoon
Immersion blender or food processor

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0.5g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 90g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 75g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a combination of apple varieties for a more complex flavor. Store apple butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cook Apple Butter Works

This slow cook apple butter recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting dinner parties or simply want to stock up on homemade treats for your family. It’s easy to make in bulk and stores well in glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

For reheating, simply place the desired amount in the microwave or oven until warm – about 30 seconds to 1 minute per serving. We love using this recipe as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even French toast – just spread some on top before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cook Apple Butter

Q: What type of apples are best for making apple butter?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Gala. This combination will give your apple butter a balanced flavor that’s neither too sweet nor too sour.

Q: Can I use other types of sugar instead of brown sugar?

A: Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with other types of sugar like white sugar or honey, but keep in mind that they’ll change the flavor profile of your apple butter. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the apples perfectly.

Q: How long does it take to cook apple butter in a slow cooker?

A: Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker model and personal preference for consistency. Generally, you can expect to cook apple butter for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Q: Can I make apple butter without adding any spices or preservatives?

A: Yes, you can omit spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer a plain apple butter flavor. However, keep in mind that spices help preserve the apple butter by inhibiting bacterial growth.

Q: How do I store apple butter after it’s cooled?

A: Once your apple butter has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container like glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

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