Creamy Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe
Introduction
Apple butter is a rich, spiced spread perfect for toast, pancakes, or even desserts. Making it in a crock pot allows the flavors to deepen slowly while you go about your day. This simple recipe transforms apples into a smooth, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the chopped apples, cinnamon, sugar, and cloves into the crock pot. Stir to combine evenly.
- Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is dark brown and thickened.
- Step 3: Use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender to puree the apple mixture until smooth.
- Step 4: Let the apple butter cool before transferring it to jars or containers for storage.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider or a pinch of nutmeg.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by a quarter or substitute with honey.
- Using a mix of apple varieties (like Granny Smith and Fuji) adds depth to the taste.
Storage
Store apple butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to six months. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make apple butter without a crock pot?
Yes, you can slow cook apple butter on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it thickens.
How do I know when the apple butter is done?
It’s ready when it becomes dark brown, thick, and spreads easily without being runny. The slow cooking process should take about 8 to 10 hours.
PrintCreamy Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe
This Apple Butter recipe utilizes a crock pot to slowly cook apples with warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating a thick, smooth spread that’s perfect for toast, baking, or adding a cozy touch to your dishes. The slow cooking method enhances the natural sweetness and flavors, resulting in a rich, flavorful apple butter with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Apple Butter Ingredients
- 4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop 4 pounds of apples into small pieces to ensure even cooking and easier blending later.
- Add Ingredients to Crock Pot: Place the chopped apples in the crock pot and sprinkle with 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook the Mixture: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for about 8 to 10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples will soften and the mixture will thicken as it cooks.
- Blend to Smooth Consistency: Once the mixture is thick and the apples are very soft, remove the crock pot insert and use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the apple mixture until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the cooked apples in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Cool and Store: Allow the apple butter to cool completely before transferring it to clean jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor; a mix of sweet and tart works best.
- Adjust sugar to taste, depending on the sweetness of your apples.
- Blending can be done with an immersion blender for convenience and less mess.
- Apple butter thickens further upon cooling.
- Can be canned using proper sterilization techniques for long-term storage.
Keywords: apple butter, crock pot apple butter, slow cooker apple butter, homemade apple spread, fall recipe, cinnamon apple butter
