Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe
Apple butter is a delightful, fragrant spread that captures the essence of autumn in every spoonful. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe from Love with Recipes transforms simple apples into a rich, velvety treat that pairs perfectly with toast, muffins, or as a sweet topping for desserts. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just looking to enjoy some homemade goodness, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for all occasions.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples | 5 1/2 lbs |
| Sugar | 4 cups |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2-3 tsp |
| Ground Cloves | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 154.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 19.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 40.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 36.4 g |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 hours (1 hour on high, 9-11 hours on low, 1 additional hour uncovered)
- Total Time: 13 hours 25 minutes
Servings:
- Yield: 4 pints
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (approx. 32 servings)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Apples:
Begin by placing the apples in a large bowl. It’s best to use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, to create a balanced flavor. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. -
-
Mix the Spices:
In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Stir these ingredients well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The cinnamon and cloves will infuse the apple butter with a warm, aromatic fragrance that fills the kitchen as it cooks. -
Toss the Apples:
Pour the spice mixture over the chopped apples. Toss everything together until the apples are thoroughly coated in the sugar and spice blend. The apples will begin to release their natural juices, and the sugar will start to dissolve. -
Transfer to the Crock Pot:
Transfer the apple mixture to your crock pot. Spread it out evenly to ensure the apples cook uniformly. Cover the pot and set it to cook on high for the first hour. This initial high heat will help the apples break down quickly and start the process of caramelizing. -
Slow Cook the Apple Butter:
After the first hour on high, reduce the heat to low. Continue to cook the mixture uncovered for 9 to 11 hours. During this time, the apples will cook down, become tender, and transform into a thick, rich, and dark brown apple butter. Stir occasionally to ensure that the mixture doesn’t burn at the edges. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for thickness and dark color as signs that it’s ready. -
Final Hour of Cooking:
After 9-11 hours, uncover the crock pot and cook for an additional hour on low. This step helps to thicken the apple butter even more, giving it a velvety smooth texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, whisk the apple butter for a couple of minutes to break up any remaining chunks. -
Store and Freeze:
Once your apple butter has reached the desired thickness, spoon it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. This will allow room for the butter to expand slightly as it freezes. Cover the containers tightly and store them in the freezer for later use.
Serving Suggestions:
Crock Pot apple butter is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Spread it on toast, muffins, or pancakes for a breakfast treat. Use it as a filling for pastries, swirl it into yogurt, or serve it alongside roasted meats as a sweet condiment. Apple butter is also a great gift, packaged in small jars with ribbons for a personal, homemade touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Low Cholesterol & Low Protein: This apple butter recipe is naturally free from cholesterol and very low in protein, making it a good choice for those following a specific diet.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Apples, the base ingredient, are high in fiber and packed with antioxidants, making this spread both nutritious and delicious.
- Perfect for Large Groups: With a yield of four pints, this recipe is ideal for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday meals.
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you free to go about your day while the sweet aroma of apple butter fills your home.
Tips for Success:
- Apple Varieties: Experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred balance of sweetness and tartness. For a more complex flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Texture Adjustments: If you like a smoother apple butter, blend it with an immersion blender once it has cooked down. Alternatively, leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic feel.
- Storage: Store the apple butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks, or freeze it for up to 6 months. The flavors will only deepen with time.
Enjoy this homemade Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe from Love with Recipes and elevate your snack and dessert game. With minimal preparation and the slow cooker’s magic, you’ll have a jarful of sweet, spiced apple goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.
