There’s something magical about fall mornings filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and simmering apples. This Easy Crockpot Apple Butter Recipe is the ultimate cozy treat that practically makes itself. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of your slow cooker, you’ll have a rich, flavorful apple butter perfect for toast, oatmeal, or even as a sweet addition to your favorite desserts. It’s hands-off, beginner-friendly, and brings a warm, nostalgic touch to your kitchen.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast / Spread / Dessert | 15 mins | 8 hours | 8 servings | 120 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 5 lbs apples (peeled, cored, and chopped; a mix of sweet and tart is ideal)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup apple cider or water
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Prepare your apples – Peel, core, and chop apples into even chunks. A mix of Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith works beautifully.
- Combine ingredients – In your crockpot, add apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and apple cider. Stir until evenly combined.
- Cook low and slow – Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. Stir occasionally if possible. Apples should be very soft and fragrant.
- Blend to perfection – Use an immersion blender directly in the crockpot or transfer in batches to a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Add vanilla – Stir in vanilla extract and let apple butter cook for an additional 15–20 minutes on low to thicken slightly.
- Cool and store – Transfer to sterilized jars or containers. Cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Tip: For a thicker apple butter, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Spice Control: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves according to your taste.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3 weeks or freeze up to 3 months.
- Apple Variety: Using a mix of sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor complexity.
- Slow Cooker Tip: If your crockpot runs hot, check at 6–7 hours to prevent burning.
Recipe Variations
- Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
- Spiced-Up Version: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
- Chunky Apple Butter: Blend only half of the mixture for a combination of smooth and chunky texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on toast, bagels, or English muffins
- Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
- Stir into baked goods like muffins or brownies for extra flavor
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Apple Butter is a comforting, hands-off recipe that brings the cozy flavors of fall right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for gifting, spreading on your favorite breakfast items, or sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar. Gather your loved ones, enjoy the sweet aroma, and savor every warm, flavorful bite.