Crock Pot Awesome Apple Butter ππ
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 14 hours
- Total Time: 15 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: Makes 5 half pint jars
- Category: Sauces
- Keywords: Spreads, Dessert, Apple, Fruit, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, Canning, Stove Top
Description:
Adapted to the crock pot, this apple butter recipe is a marvel of flavors! With a total prep time of 90 minutes, including peeling and preparing the apples, cooking on the stove, and milling the mixture, this recipe yields a delightful spread perfect for breads, graham crackers, pretzel dips, and even unfrosted cakes.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples, washed, peeled, cored, and coarsely chopped
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 1/4 teaspoons nutmeg
- 1/4 cup apple juice
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Apples: Wash, peel, core, and coarsely chop the apples. |
| 2 | Simmer the Apples: Place the chopped apples in a large pot along with the apple juice. Bring the mixture to a boil on the stovetop, then reduce the heat and simmer until the apples are soft, approximately 30 minutes. |
| 3 | Strain the Apples: Strain the softened apples and juice through a food mill or press through a fine mesh sieve directly into a large crock pot. For a smoother texture, strain the pulp twice. |
| 4 | Add Spices: Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. |
| 5 | Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 12 to 14 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened. |
| 6 | Check Consistency: To test if the apple butter is done, it should mound up on a spoon and have a glossy sheen. Additionally, a spoonful placed on a chilled plate should not release any liquid. |
| 7 | Jar the Apple Butter: Ladle the apple butter into clean, hot half-pint or pint jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. |
| 8 | Seal the Jars: Wipe the jar rims with a damp cloth to ensure a clean seal. Place dome lids on the jars and screw on the bands securely but not overly tight. |
| 9 | Process in Water Bath: Process the jars in a 200Β°F (93Β°C) water bath for 10 minutes for half-pint jars or 15 minutes for pint jars. Ensure the jars are completely submerged in water. |
| 10 | Cool and Store: Carefully remove the jars from the water bath using jar lifters and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool completely. As they cool, you should hear the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the apple butter for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy! ππ |
This Crock Pot Awesome Apple Butter is a labor of love that results in a delicious spread bursting with the flavors of fall. Whether slathered on warm toast, swirled into oatmeal, or gifted to friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Gather your apples, set your crock pot, and let the slow cooking magic begin! ππ
