Description
This Crockpot Apple Butter recipe transforms peeled, cored, and sliced apples into a rich, spiced spread that’s perfect for pairing with crusty bread, cheese, or fresh fruit. Slow-cooked to perfection with brown and granulated sugars, apple pie spice, and vanilla extract, this apple butter boasts a deep, warm flavor and velvety texture, making it a delightful addition to your pantry.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 6-7 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
Spices and Sugars
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
Additional Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples, then place them in a 7-quart or larger slow cooker to ensure sufficient space for cooking and stirring.
- Mix sugars and spice: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and apple pie spice until well combined.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the apple slices in the slow cooker. Toss gently to evenly coat all apple pieces with the sugar-spice mixture.
- Slow cook on low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote uniform cooking.
- Add vanilla and cook on high: Uncover the slow cooker, stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly, then switch the cooker to high heat and cook uncovered for an additional 2 hours to reduce and thicken the apple mixture.
- Blend until smooth: Use a stick blender directly in the slow cooker, or transfer the cooked apples to a food processor or blender, to puree the mixture until smooth and spreadable.
- Serve or store: Enjoy the apple butter fresh with crusty bread, cheese, fruit, or store it in sterilized jars for later use.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your apples or desired taste.
- For a thicker apple butter, allow it to cook uncovered for extra time beyond the 2 hours if needed.
- Use a large slow cooker to avoid overflow and ensure even cooking.
- This apple butter can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or frozen for several months.
- Serve as a versatile spread or condiment alongside various snacks and dishes.
