Slow Cooker Apple Butter

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Sweet, spiced, and irresistibly smooth, this Slow Cooker Apple Butter is fall comfort in a jar. Made with fresh apples and slow-cooked to caramelized perfection, it’s thick, spreadable, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor. Whether you slather it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or spoon it over pancakes, this recipe transforms simple apples into a rich and velvety spread that’s better than anything from a store.

The beauty of this apple butter is that it’s entirely hands-off thanks to the slow cooker. Just toss everything in, let it simmer low and slow, then blend to silky smoothness. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn dream. It’s naturally dairy-free, easy to make in big batches, and stores beautifully.

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Butter

• Set it and forget it: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
• Incredible flavor: Apples, cinnamon, and spices slowly develop into a deeply rich taste.
• No refined sugar: Sweetened naturally with apples and a touch of maple syrup.
• Versatile: Use it on toast, biscuits, yogurt, or even in baking.
• Preserves well: Makes thoughtful homemade gifts!

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Apple Butter?

The best apple butter comes from using a mix of sweet and tart apples. Try combining varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith for a balanced, layered flavor. Avoid apples that are overly watery (like Red Delicious), and lean into those that break down well while cooking.

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Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Apple Butter

To make the most flavorful apple butter, quality ingredients are key. Here’s what each one brings to the table:

• Fresh apples: The heart of this recipe. Use about 5 pounds of mixed apples for a complex, natural sweetness.
• Maple syrup: A touch of maple adds warmth and richness, enhancing the apples without overpowering them.
• Cinnamon: A classic spice that gives apple butter its signature cozy flavor.
• Nutmeg & cloves: These deepen the warmth, making every bite feel like fall.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a gentle aromatic lift.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and bring flavors together.

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How To Make the Slow Cooker Apple Butter

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples. You don’t have to be precise—they’ll cook down completely.

Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Place the apples into the slow cooker, then add maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and vanilla. Stir to coat the apples evenly.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 10 hours or until the apples are very soft and dark brown. Stir occasionally if you can, but it’s not mandatory.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once cooked, use an immersion blender right in the crock or transfer to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth.

Step 5: Reduce (Optional)

If you’d like thicker apple butter, return it to the slow cooker (uncovered) and cook on LOW for 1-2 more hours, stirring occasionally.

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How to Serve and Store This Apple Butter

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter makes about 3-4 cups, enough for a family to enjoy throughout the season or to share in small jars as gifts.

Store it in airtight containers or jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe jars or bags for up to 3 months. You can also preserve it in sterilized jars via canning.

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What to Serve With Apple Butter?

On Toast or Biscuits

Spread generously on toasted sourdough or fresh, flaky buttermilk biscuits.

In Yogurt or Oatmeal

Swirl it into your morning bowl for natural sweetness and a spiced twist.

Over Pancakes or Waffles

Use it instead of syrup for a fruit-forward breakfast topping.

As a Meat Glaze

Pair with pork chops or roast chicken for a delicious sweet-savory glaze.

In Baking

Substitute in muffins, quick breads, or as a filling for cakes.

With Cheese Boards

Spoon some into a ramekin alongside sharp cheddar or brie.

On Ice Cream

Warm it slightly and drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.

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Want More Spreadable Fruit Recipes?

If you’re loving this Slow Cooker Apple Butter, don’t stop here! Try these other flavorful creations:

• Easy Apple Crisp Bars for a handheld twist on classic comfort.
• Banana Bread Cookies that blend fruit and baked goodness.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler if you’re craving a zesty, spoonable treat.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for when you need a decadent fruit-filled dessert.
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad for a savory counterbalance to your sweet spread.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever fall cravings strike.

And I want to hear from you: did you go extra spicy or keep it classic? Maybe swapped in brown sugar or added cardamom? Drop your tweaks in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next seasonal favorite.

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