Apple Butter is a rich, spiced spread that captures the warm, comforting flavors of fall. Made with slow-cooked apples, sugar, and cozy spices, it has a thick, smooth texture that’s perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or pancakes.
Unlike traditional butter, this sweet treat is dairy-free and naturally delicious. If you’re looking for a homemade recipe to fill your kitchen with the aromas of autumn, this Apple Butter is the perfect choice!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker or large pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Mason jars (for storage)
Ingredients
- 6 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Apples: Place the chopped apples into a slow cooker or large pot.
- Add Sweeteners and Spices: Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
- Cook:
- Slow Cooker: Set to low and cook for 8–10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized.
- Stovetop: Cook over low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Thicken (Optional): If the apple butter is too thin, continue cooking uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Store: Pour the apple butter into sterilized mason jars and let cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
8–10 hours (slow cooker) or 2–3 hours (stovetop)
Total Time
8–10 hours 20 minutes (slow cooker) or 3 hours 20 minutes (stovetop)
Nutrition (Per Tablespoon, Approx.)
- Calories: 20
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Expert Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: A mix of sweet (e.g., Fuji, Gala) and tart (e.g., Granny Smith) apples creates a balanced flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the apple butter as it cooks and adjust the sugar if needed.
- Spices: Feel free to customize the spices to your taste by adding ginger or allspice.
- Consistency: For a thicker apple butter, cook longer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
FAQs
Can I can this apple butter for long-term storage?
Yes, you can use a water bath canning method to preserve apple butter. Be sure to follow proper canning guidelines for safety.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you plan to blend thoroughly, you can leave the peels on.
Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Yes, replace the sugar with honey, maple syrup, or leave it out for a naturally sweetened version, depending on your apples’ sweetness.
How do I know when the apple butter is done?
The apple butter is ready when it’s thick enough to hold its shape on a spoon and doesn’t run.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe jars or containers for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving if desired.
Substitutions & Variations
- Sweeteners: Substitute sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
- Spices: Add ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Citrus: Add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
Apple Butter Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **Prepare the Apples:** Place the chopped apples into a slow cooker or large pot.
- **Add Sweeteners and Spices:** Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
- **Cook:**
- - **Slow Cooker:** Set to low and cook for 8–10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized.
- - **Stovetop:** Cook over low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- **Blend:** Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- **Thicken (Optional):** If the apple butter is too thin, continue cooking uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency.
- **Add Vanilla:** Stir in the vanilla extract.
- **Store:** Pour the apple butter into sterilized mason jars and let cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
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