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Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter

Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter

Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter is a cozy, flavorful spread combining the natural sweetness of apples with the rich, caramel notes of pure maple syrup. Slowly simmered to perfection in a crockpot, this velvety and fragrant apple butter is perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into yogurt, or gifting. Its natural ingredients and long-lasting flavor make it a versatile and wholesome treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 4 to 5 lbs mixed apples (such as Fuji and Granny Smith), washed, cored, and roughly chopped

Sweetener & Flavorings

  • 1 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Wash, core, and roughly chop your apples into chunks. Peeling is optional as the skins soften during cooking and add nutrients.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place chopped apples in the slow cooker along with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours. The apples will break down completely and thicken to a dark, butter-like consistency.
  4. Blend to Smooth Perfection: Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker or transfer in batches to a blender. Puree until smooth and creamy, adjusting texture as desired.
  5. Final Thickening: Turn the slow cooker to high and cook uncovered for an additional 30 to 60 minutes to thicken further. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Cool and Store: Allow the apple butter to cool before transferring to sterilized jars or containers. Store in the refrigerator or gift as desired.

Notes

  • Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor and texture.
  • Cook low and slow to avoid burning and ensure even texture.
  • Use a thick-bottomed slow cooker to prevent scorching during thickening.
  • Stir occasionally near the end of cooking to prevent sticking and burn spots.
  • Test texture and taste frequently to adjust sweetness or spice before final storage.

Nutrition

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