Apple Butter Recipe

Picture the sweet aroma of apples simmering gently, filling your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

Apple butter is a simple yet indulgent treat, perfect for spreading on toast or mixing into yogurt.

This easy-to-make recipe transforms basic apples into a velvety, spiced spread that feels like a comforting hug.

With just a few simple ingredients, watch them meld into something extraordinary over hours of slow cooking.

Let’s bring this delightful dish to life.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 Slow cooker
• 1 Peeler
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Food processor or blender
• 1 Large spoon
• 1 Jar or container

Ingredients

• 6 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time when making apple butter, follow the timeline below:

1. Reading and Familiarization: 10 minutes
   • Before starting, take about 10 minutes to read through the recipe and instructions thoroughly to understand the process and gather all necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Preparation: 20 minutes
   • Peel, core, and chop the apples: 15 minutes
   • Measure and prepare other ingredients: 5 minutes
3. Setting Up Slow Cooker: 5 minutes
   • Place apples in the slow cooker.
   • Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
   • Stir to coat apples evenly.
4. Cooking: 10 hours
   • Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 10 hours.
   • Consider stirring the mixture occasionally (every 2-3 hours) to prevent sticking.
5. Post-Cooking: 15 minutes
   • Add vanilla extract and stir.
   • Puree the mixture using a food processor or blender until smooth.
6. Storage: 10 minutes
   • Transfer the apple butter to a jar or container for storage.

Feel free to adjust the timeline as needed to suit your pace and kitchen setup.

Recipe Instructions

Place the apples in the slow cooker.

Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt to the apples.

Stir the mixture to coat the apples evenly.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 10 hours.

After cooking, uncover the slow cooker and stir in the vanilla extract.

Use a food processor or blender to puree the mixture until smooth.

Transfer the apple butter to a jar or container for storage.

Serving Tips

• Toast or Biscuits: Spread apple butter on warm toast or freshly baked biscuits for a delicious breakfast treat.
• Pancakes or Waffles: Use apple butter as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding a flavorful twist to your morning meal.
• Yogurt or Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful of apple butter into yogurt or oatmeal for a natural sweetener and extra flavor.
• Cheese Board: Pair apple butter with a selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or brie, for a sweet and savory combination.
• Roasted Meats: Serve apple butter alongside roasted pork or chicken to complement the savory flavors with its sweet and spiced notes.

Storage

Store apple butter in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

For longer preservation, freeze in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.

Thaw before use.

Freezing

To freeze apple butter, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Leave some space for expansion.

Label with the date and use within six months for best flavor.

Reheating

To reheat apple butter, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat.

Stir occasionally.

Alternatively, microwave in short intervals.

Stir between each to guarantee even heating without burning.

Final Thoughts

Enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of homemade apple butter.

It’s a versatile spread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a gift.

Remember, the key to a smooth consistency is thorough pureeing.

For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon.

This simple recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Store it properly, and you can savor its deliciousness for weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Sugar?

You can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Adjust sweetness to taste. Use the same measurement as sugar, but monitor consistency, as liquid sweeteners may alter texture. Stir thoroughly to guarantee even distribution.

What Types of Apples Work Best for Apple Butter?

For the best apple butter, choose a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji. Their balance enhances flavor. Peel, core, and chop evenly for consistent cooking. Adjust sugar based on apple sweetness.

How Can I Make Apple Butter Without a Slow Cooker?

You can make apple butter on the stovetop. Use a large pot, combine apples and ingredients, simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring frequently. Puree with a blender for smooth texture, then store properly.

Is It Possible to Make Apple Butter Without Peeling the Apples?

Yes, you can make apple butter without peeling the apples. Use a food processor to puree them thoroughly after cooking. The peel adds nutrients and texture, but guarantee even chopping for consistent cooking and blending.

Can Apple Butter Be Used in Baking Recipes?

You can incorporate apple butter into baking recipes by substituting it for fats like butter or oil, enhancing flavor. Use it in muffins, cakes, or as a filling. Adjust sugar levels to balance sweetness and moisture.

Apple Butter Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 hours hrs

Total Time 10 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Spread

Cuisine American

Servings 4 cups

Equipment

• 1 slow cooker
• 1 peeler
• 1 Knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 food processor or blender
• 1 large spoon
• 1 Jar or container

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 6 pound apples peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Place the apples in the slow cooker.
• Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt to the apples.
• Stir the mixture to coat the apples evenly.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 10 hours.
• After cooking, uncover the slow cooker and stir in the vanilla extract.
• Use a food processor or blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
• Transfer the apple butter to a jar or container for storage.

Notes

For extra tips, ensure the apples are evenly chopped to facilitate uniform cooking. The type of apples used can alter the sweetness and consistency, so adjust the sugar levels according to taste. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking. Apple butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer preservation.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.