Slow Cooker Apple Butter – Easy Homemade Recipe for Fall Flavor

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of apple butter filling your kitchen on a crisp autumn day. This slow cooker apple butter recipe is one of my favorite ways to make a naturally sweet, spreadable treat that tastes like fall in a jar. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, adding it to oatmeal, or using it in baking, this easy homemade apple butter recipe is perfect for cozy mornings or thoughtful gifts. I love that it requires minimal effort—just toss the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Ingredients

• 5 pounds of apples (about 10 medium apples), peeled, cored, and chopped

• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop all apples into small pieces. Place them in the slow cooker.

2. Add sweeteners and spices: Sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt over the apples. Pour in 1/2 cup water.

3. Cook on low: Cover and cook on low heat for 8–10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples should break down and become soft.

4. Mash the apples: Use an immersion blender or potato masher to puree the apples until smooth. For an ultra-smooth texture, continue cooking uncovered for 1–2 more hours to thicken.

5. Add vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

6. Cool and store: Let the apple butter cool slightly before transferring to jars or containers.

Tips & Variations

• Tip 1: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith for a richer flavor.

• Tip 2: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a warm, spiced twist.

• Tip 3: For a sugar-free version, replace sugars with 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup.

• Variation: Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavor and help preserve the apple butter.

• Variation: Add a splash of apple cider for a deeper, more caramel-like taste.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• Freezer: Pour into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months.

• Reheating: Warm in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. For microwave use, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid scorching.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Apple butter actually tastes better after sitting for a day or two, as the flavors continue to meld.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Absolutely. You can substitute honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, adjusting to taste.

Is it possible to make it without a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook in a large pot on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring frequently, until the apples are soft and thickened.

Can I can apple butter for long-term storage?
Yes, use sterilized jars and follow proper canning procedures to store at room temperature safely.

Nutritional Information (per 2-tablespoon serving)

• Calories: 45 kcal

• Protein: 0.1 g

• Carbohydrates: 12 g

• Fat: 0 g

• Sugar: 10 g

This slow cooker apple butter is a must-try for anyone who loves easy homemade recipes that taste like fall in a jar. Try it on toast, pancakes, or even swirl it into yogurt for a cozy treat. Don’t forget to comment below and let me know how yours turned out! If you enjoyed this recipe, check out my other homemade spreads and fall desserts—you won’t want to miss them.