Name: Slow Cooker Apple Butter Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 1/2 pounds apples – cleaned, peeled and cored (Granny Smith used); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

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Make this Slow Cooker Apple Butter for a sweet and perfectly spiced topping with a rustic flair, perfect to pair with breakfasts, desserts, and more!

Step into the cozy and aromatic world of homemade apple butter! As the crisp days of autumn approach, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of fresh apples and warm spices wafting through your kitchen.

Read this post and learn the art of crafting velvety-smooth apple butter using your trusty slow cooker or crockpot.

Apple Butter poured on biscuits with an open jar of apple butter beside. — Apple Butter is so easy to make in your crockpot!

From the first slice of apple to the final jar of luscious spread, I’ll take you through the steps of simmering, blending, and savoring the essence of the fall season. This homemade apple butter recipe will help you create jars of warmth that can be enjoyed all year round, given as gifts, and more.

To keep your apple butter safe and delicious for even longer, be sure to read this post on the best Canning Tips so you can properly preserve your homemade spread!

Slow cooker apple butter spread on various breakfast foods. — Homemade apple butter is the perfect fall spread for a special and delicious breakfast or brunch!

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Apple Butter

With the fall season coming up, I’m reminded of apple butter makin’ days. But why take the hard route when you can easily make this apple butter recipe in the slow cooker?

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the scent of apples and spices filling the air. Combine sweet apples with sugar and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for the ultimate autumnal spread.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a dedicated foodie, or simply someone who loves the joys of slow cooking, this 5-ingredient recipe is your ticket to a jar of apple bliss.

Let your slow cooker works its magic by turning simple apples into a luxurious and decadent spread. You’ll love how easy this apple butter is to make!

So, grab your favorite varieties of apples, break out the slow cooker, and get ready to experience the joy of creating a delicious treat that captures the essence of autumn!

Equipment Needed

Crockpot
Knife
Vegetable Peeler – a paring knife would also suffice, but peeling apples is simpler with the correct tool.
Crockpot Liner – this will make it much easier to clean up your slow cooker.
Immersion Blender – a typical stand blender could also be used, but an immersion blender will make it an easier process.
Cutting Board
4 1-Pint Mason Jars and Lids or 8 ½-Pint Mason Jars and Lids
Measuring Cups
Measuring Spoon

Apple Butter Ingredients

Ingredients for slow cooker apple butter. — With only a few simple ingredients, you can easily get started with the slow cooking process.

Apples – clean, peel, core, and slice your apples. I used Granny Smith for this recipe, but feel free to substitute with an apple variety or varieties of your choosing.
Sugar
Light Brown Sugar – a deeper and more rich flavor can be accomplished with dark brown sugar, but I recommend starting with light and adjusting once you’re familiar with the flavors.
Cinnamon – this classic spice pairs perfectly with apples and instantly conjures the flavors of fall and apple cider.
Nutmeg – enhances the cinnamon and adds a somewhat nutty and earthy flavor.
Cloves – a pungent and aromatic spice that will give your apple butter a distinctly warm flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Butter

Chop apples into 1-inch cubes and place in lined crock pot. You can buy slow cooker liners here.
Use a crockpot liner to make cleanup an absolute breeze!
In medium bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Pour mixture over apples and stir until combined well.
Combine apples with a simple mixture of sugars and spices and turn on the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on high for 5 hours, or low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and dark brown.
Uncover and puree with an immersion blender until smooth.
An immersion blender eliminates the need to transfer your apple butter to another appliance in between steps!
Continue to slow cook apple butter on low uncovered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
The finished product will be thick and decadent with a gorgeous warm aroma!
Using measuring cup, pour into clean jars or containers, cover, and refrigerate for 1 month in airtight container.

Apple Butter FAQs

What are the best apples for Apple Butter?

I used Granny Smith Apples, but other apple butter recipes will also recommend varieties like Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious, and Honeycrisp. It comes down to personal preference, but when combining apples, brown sugar, and spices, it’s hard to go wrong!

How long will Apple Butter last without canning?

Your apple butter will last up to a month if stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. It can also be stored in the freezer in freezer-safe bags for up to a year. Thaw in the fridge overnight to enjoy from frozen.

Is a Crockpot the same as a slow cooker?

Yes, these two terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, Crockpot is a brand that makes slow cookers, so you may have a slow cooker from a different brand. At the end of the day, they’re the same thing!

Can I preserve this apple butter to last longer?

This apple butter can be canned using the water bath canning method. If done correctly and with quality materials, canned apple butter can be preserved for up to a year and a half before it starts to go bad.

Check out this guide on Canning Supplies if you’ve never done this before and would like a solid starting point.

Apple Butter in a mason jar opened — Best Apple Butter recipe perfect for the fall season. Store in fridge or freezer.

Popular Variations and Substitutions

For a bit of extra sweetness, add some vanilla extract or even vanilla bean paste to your apple butter.
This recipe calls for light brown sugar, but dark brown sugar can also be used if you prefer a deeper and more rich flavor.
Another option for some natural sweetness would be to use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. This will give your homemade apple butter another layer of fall flavor.
You can leave the peels on your apples or remove them. The immersion blender will blend it all together in the end!
Use apple butter as a spread for toast, English muffins, waffles, or pancakes. Spoon a dollop on top of your morning oatmeal. You can even pair it with cheese for a sophisticated appetizer, or use it as an ingredient in baking!

Pouring homemade apple butter into a jar. — Transfer your apple butter to glass jars or other containers and use it for yourself or give away for homemade gifts!

More Recipes You’ll Love

Apple Walnut Muffins with Streusel – Can’t get enough of sweet apples for the fall? Try these absolutely delicious muffins with a sweet topping, perfect for a special breakfast or dessert!
Pumpkin Cranberry Banana Bread – You’ll adore this autumnal twist on classic banana bread featuring a moist bread with sweet and slightly tangy cranberries.
Cranberry Orange Relish – This simple 4-ingredient topping is great to serve alongside a holiday meal or even as a refreshing summer appetizer.
Caramel Apple Jello Shots – If you’re looking for a sweet and boozy treat to enjoy alongside your homemade apple butter, try these apple jello shots with a yummy caramel topping!

Homemade Apple Butter in Slow Cooker Recipe