Crockpot Apple Butter

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Have you ever wanted to enjoy the warm, comforting taste of homemade apple butter without spending hours in the kitchen?

Making apple butter can seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re busy.

Fortunately, with a crockpot, you can create delicious, spreadable apple butter with minimal effort.

Just let your slow cooker do the work while you focus on other things.

This simple method will help you make a rich, flavorful apple butter that’s perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a gift.

Table of Contents

Crockpot Apple Butter Recipe

Ingredients

5 lbs of apples (any type works, but Gala is a great choice)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 small pinches of salt

Instructions

Peel, core, and slice the apples.
Place the apple slices in the slow cooker. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Mix everything together.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 5 hours or low for 8-10 hours.
Once the apples are tender, transfer them and any liquid to a blender. Secure the lid and place a towel over it to avoid any spills. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to achieve a smooth consistency.

What Is The Difference Between Applesauce And Apple Butter?

Applesauce and apple butter are both made from apples, but they have different textures and flavors.

Applesauce is made by cooking apples until they are soft and then blending them into a smooth puree. It is usually plain or lightly sweetened.

In contrast, apple butter is made by cooking apples for a much longer time until they break down completely and the mixture becomes very thick.

Apple butter also includes spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which give it a richer and spicier flavor.

While applesauce is light and smooth, apple butter has a dense, spreadable texture and a deeper taste due to the extended cooking process.

What Do You Do If Apple Butter Doesn’t Thicken?

If your apple butter hasn’t thickened to your liking, you can try a few things to fix it.

First, continue cooking it on a low heat, stirring occasionally, to allow more moisture to evaporate.

This will help it thicken over time. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a thickening agent.

Mix a small amount of cornstarch or instant potato flakes with a little water to make a slurry, then stir this into the apple butter.

Cook it for a few more minutes to ensure the thickener is fully incorporated.

Another option is to use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the mixture more thoroughly, which can help reduce any remaining liquid.

How To Serve Apple Butter?

Apple butter is versatile and can be used in many ways. It’s a perfect spread for toast, bagels, or English muffins.

You can also use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for added flavor.

Apple butter works well as a filling for pastries, muffins, and cakes. It can be mixed into yogurt or cottage cheese for a sweet twist.

For a simple snack, serve apple butter with slices of fresh apples or cheese.

It can also be used as a glaze for meats like pork or chicken, adding a touch of sweetness and spice.

How To Store Apple Butter?

To keep apple butter fresh, store it in clean, airtight jars. Make sure the jars are properly sealed to prevent air from getting in, which can spoil the apple butter.

If you plan to use it within a few weeks, you can keep it in the refrigerator.

It will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the apple butter.

It can be frozen in jars or plastic containers for up to 6 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the jar or container for expansion as it freezes.

When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

How Long Does The Apple Butter Keep In The Refrigerator?

Apple butter stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To make sure it stays at its best, store it in a clean, airtight container.

This prevents air from getting in and helps maintain the apple butter’s flavor and texture.

Can You Freeze Apple Butter?

Yes, you can freeze apple butter. Freezing is a great way to keep it for longer.

To freeze apple butter, place it in freezer-safe jars or plastic containers.

Leave a bit of space at the top of the jar or container because the apple butter will expand as it freezes.

It can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, move it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Avoid thawing it in the microwave as it can affect the texture.

Do You Have To Peel The Apples?

It’s best to peel the apples before making apple butter. The skins can add a slightly bitter taste and make the texture less smooth.

By peeling the apples, you ensure that the apple butter has a sweet flavor and a creamy consistency.

If you prefer not to peel them, you may need to strain the mixture after cooking to remove any leftover bits of skin.

Does Apple Butter Go Bad If Not Refrigerated?

Yes, apple butter can spoil if it’s not refrigerated. If left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it can develop harmful bacteria and become unsafe to eat.

Always store apple butter in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you see any signs of mold or an off smell, it’s best to discard it.