Slow Cooker Apple Butter

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When autumn starts to roll in and crisp apples are everywhere, there’s nothing cozier than the scent of slow cooker apple butter filling your kitchen. This recipe takes all the best parts of fall and turns them into a silky-smooth, deeply spiced spread that you’ll want to spoon over everything. From warm toast to oatmeal to swirls in your yogurt, this apple butter elevates every bite with comforting sweetness.

What makes this recipe extra special is the slow cooking process. As the apples break down gently over hours, they transform into a thick, caramelized butter that tastes like apple pie in a jar. And because it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s mostly hands-off. You can enjoy your day while the aroma builds and your apple butter slowly works its magic.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Butter

This apple butter isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile and pantry-friendly. It uses simple ingredients, requires no canning knowledge, and makes your home smell heavenly. It’s also naturally dairy-free, so it’s perfect for anyone avoiding milk-based spreads. Whether you’re gifting it during the holidays or keeping it stocked for yourself, this recipe delivers pure, spiced apple flavor every time.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

A good blend of sweet and tart apples creates the best flavor. Think Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith together. The mix ensures your apple butter has depth, a hint of tang, and plenty of natural sweetness. You don’t need to peel them either—just core and slice. The peels break down beautifully during cooking and add richness.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Apple Butter

This slow cooker apple butter comes together with minimal ingredients, but each one plays a key role in building that cozy, robust flavor we love.

Apples
The heart of the recipe. Use a variety like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala to bring balance between sweet and tart.

Brown Sugar
Adds that deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the natural apple flavor.

Granulated Sugar
Boosts the sweetness and helps create a silky, caramelized finish.

Ground Cinnamon
The must-have spice for apple butter. It infuses warmth and depth.

Ground Nutmeg
Adds a subtle nutty spice that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.

Ground Cloves
Provides a punch of spice that makes every spoonful extra comforting.

Vanilla Extract
Brings everything together with a smooth, rich backdrop.

Salt
Just a pinch elevates all the sweet notes and deepens the overall flavor.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Apple Butter

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Wash, core, and slice your apples. No need to peel them unless you prefer a smoother texture. The skins will soften and blend right in.

Step 2: Fill the Slow Cooker

Add the sliced apples to your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the apples are well coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally. The apples will break down completely and become golden brown and fragrant.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once the apples are fully broken down, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a blender.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

If your apple butter still seems a bit runny, cook uncovered on low for another 1 to 2 hours until it thickens to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Let it cool before transferring to airtight jars. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

How to Store and Serve This Apple Butter

Slow cooker apple butter can be stored in mason jars or airtight containers in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. This recipe makes enough to fill around four small jars, making it ideal for gifting.

When it comes to serving, the possibilities are endless. Spread it on biscuits, pancakes, or French toast. Stir it into warm oatmeal, layer it in a grilled cheese with brie, or swirl it through vanilla ice cream for a fall dessert twist.

What to Serve With Apple Butter?

Warm Biscuits

Buttery biscuits and apple butter are a match made in heaven. The combination is rich, flaky, and full of warm spice.

Pancakes or Waffles

Drizzle apple butter over your morning stack instead of syrup for a bold seasonal upgrade.

Pork Chops

Apple and pork are a classic pairing. A spoonful of apple butter on a grilled pork chop adds depth and sweetness.

Yogurt Parfaits

Layer apple butter with granola and yogurt for a fall-inspired breakfast or snack.

Cheese Boards

Serve apple butter alongside sharp cheddar or creamy brie to add a sweet-savory contrast.

Ice Cream Topping

Warm it slightly and spoon over vanilla ice cream. It tastes like apple pie without the crust.

Toasted Bread

The classic pairing—toasty sourdough or whole grain bread becomes something magical with a thick layer of apple butter.

Want More Fall Treat Ideas?

If you’re enjoying this slow cooker apple butter, here are a few more comforting, autumn-worthy recipes to try:

• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler
• Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest fall board so it’s ready when apple season hits!

And when you make it, let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you try different apple varieties? Did you go light or bold with the spice?

I love seeing how others make this cozy recipe their own. Ask away if you need tips, too—we’re all here to get better in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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