Description
Homemade crockpot apple butter brings warmth and comfort from traditional orchards. Midwestern home cooks cherish this silky spread for morning toast and holiday gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6 pounds apples, any variety
Sugars:
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 12 cup granulated sugar
Spices and Flavoring:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
Instructions
- Meticulously wash, peel, and core crisp apples, then slice them into consistent, thin wedges approximately 1/2 inch thick for optimal texture and even cooking.
- Combine apple slices in the crockpot with dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, aromatic ground cinnamon, nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and ground cloves, thoroughly mixing to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the fruit.
- Secure the crockpot lid and set to high temperature, allowing the mixture to simmer and caramelize for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and ensure uniform cooking.
- Once apples have transformed into a soft, golden-brown consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the crockpot, creating a silky-smooth texture. If using a standard blender, carefully transfer contents and process until reaching desired consistency.
- Incorporate vanilla extract into the pureed mixture, stirring gently to infuse additional depth and warmth to the apple butter.
- Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 30-40 minutes, stirring periodically, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and the spread to thicken to a rich, spreadable consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the apple butter cool completely before transferring to sterilized glass jars, ensuring a tight seal for optimal preservation.
- Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for extended storage of up to three months, maintaining its robust flavor and smooth texture.
Notes
- Select apples with a balance of sweet and tart flavors like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the most complex and rich taste profile.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure uniform apple slices, promoting even cooking and consistent texture throughout the butter.
- Reduce sugar content by substituting some brown sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
- Customize spice levels by adjusting cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to suit personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg