Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it transforms simple apples into a flavorful spread with minimal effort. The slow cooking process creates a rich, concentrated apple flavor that tastes like fall in every spoonful. I also appreciate how versatile it is, whether I spread it on breakfast favorites, swirl it into oatmeal, or use it as a topping for desserts. Plus, it stores well, making it a great make-ahead recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- I place the sliced apples and apple cider in a large slow cooker or heavy pot.
- I cook the apples until they become very soft and tender.
- I puree the softened apples using an immersion blender or food processor until smooth.
- I stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- I continue cooking the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- I cook until the mixture thickens and darkens in color, which usually takes several hours.
- I stir in the vanilla extract near the end of cooking.
- I allow the apple butter to cool before transferring it to jars or airtight containers.
- I refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 48 (about 3 cups total)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- I add a pinch of allspice for extra warmth and depth.
- I use maple syrup in place of some of the sugar for a richer flavor.
- I mix in a small amount of bourbon for a more complex taste.
- I add extra cinnamon when I want a stronger spice profile.
- I use a blend of sweet and tart apples to create a more balanced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store Apple Butter in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, I freeze it for up to 6 months and thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Since I usually serve Apple Butter cold or at room temperature, reheating is rarely necessary. When I want it warm, I gently heat a small portion in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
FAQs
What is the difference between applesauce and Apple Butter?
I find that applesauce is lighter and less concentrated, while Apple Butter is cooked much longer, resulting in a thicker texture and richer flavor.
Which apples work best for Apple Butter?
I like using a combination of sweet and tart apples such as Granny Smith Apples and Honeycrisp Apples for a balanced flavor.
Can I make Apple Butter without a slow cooker?
Yes, I can prepare it in a large pot on the stovetop. I simply cook it over low heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Why is my Apple Butter not thick enough?
I continue cooking it longer to allow more moisture to evaporate. The mixture also thickens as it cools.
Can I use Apple Butter in baking?
Yes, I often use it in muffins, cakes, cookies, and quick breads to add moisture and apple flavor.
Conclusion
I enjoy making Apple Butter because it turns everyday apples into a rich, flavorful spread that can be enjoyed in countless ways. The slow cooking process develops deep caramelized notes and warm spice flavors that make every bite satisfying. Whether I spread it on toast, stir it into breakfast dishes, or incorporate it into baking recipes, it always adds a delicious homemade touch.
PrintApple Butter
Apple Butter is a rich, smooth fruit spread made by slowly cooking apples with warm spices until thick and deeply flavored. Perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or using in baked goods.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings (about 3 cups)
- Category: Spread
- Method: Slow Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place the sliced apples and apple cider in a large slow cooker or heavy pot.
- Cook the apples until they become very soft and tender.
- Puree the softened apples using an immersion blender or food processor until smooth.
- Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for several hours until the mixture thickens and darkens in color.
- Stir in the vanilla extract near the end of cooking.
- Allow the apple butter to cool before transferring it to jars or airtight containers.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- Add a pinch of allspice for extra warmth and depth.
- Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
- Use a blend of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
- If the apple butter is too thin, continue cooking until excess moisture evaporates.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 35 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg