Indulge in the rich, spiced goodness of homemade Crock Pot Apple Butter, a delightful preserve perfect for canning. This recipe delivers a flavorful spread that will elevate your breakfast toast, muffins, or even savory dishes.
Author:nadia
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:10 hours
Total Time:Approximately 10 hours 20 minutes
Yield:About 6 half-pint jars or 3 pint jars
Category:Condiment / Spread
Method:Slow Cooker / Water Bath Canning
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Apples (peeled, cored and sliced)
Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground cloves
Ground allspice or nutmeg (optional)
Vanilla extract (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)
Salt
Instructions
Line the Slow Cooker: Line a 6–8 quart slow cooker with peeled, cored and sliced apples (about 5 lb).
Combine Ingredients: Combine sugars, cinnamon, cloves, allspice or nutmeg, salt, and optionally lemon juice or vanilla extract. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
Cook: Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours or low for 8–10 hours until apples are soft and dark brown.
Thicken: Uncover, stir in vanilla or lemon juice if using, and continue cooking uncovered on low for an additional 1–2 hours to thicken.
Puree: Use an immersion blender or blender to puree until smooth.
Canning: Ladle hot apple butter into sterilized canning jars, leaving ¼‑inch headspace. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims, seal, and process jars in a boiling‑water bath for 10–20 minutes.
Final Steps: Let jars cool, test seals, label, and store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.
Notes
Use a mix of apple varieties like Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith for richer flavor.
You can omit added sugar and use apple juice or cider for natural sweetness.
Cook slow and low for a caramelized depth of flavor.
To test readiness, place a dollop on a plate; it’s ready when it retains its shape without separating.