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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, naturally sweet spread that combines tender apples, rich maple syrup, and warming spices. Slowly cooked to perfection, it delivers a smooth, deeply flavored apple butter perfect for toast, snacks, baking, or adding warmth to oatmeal and yogurt. Free from refined sugars and preservatives, this comforting treat captures the essence of fall year-round with its luscious texture and inviting aroma.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

  • 6 to 8 cups fresh apples (a mix of sweet and tart, such as Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped

Sweeteners

  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (use sparingly)

Other

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop your chosen apples into small chunks for even cooking and easier mashing later on.
  2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the apple chunks into your slow cooker along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, maple syrup, and lemon juice, stirring briefly to incorporate all ingredients.
  3. Slow Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, occasionally stirring if possible, allowing the apples to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
  4. Blend to Desired Consistency: Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker or transfer to a blender to puree into a smooth apple butter, or leave it a bit chunky if you prefer texture.
  5. Simmer Uncovered to Thicken: Turn the slow cooker to high or transfer the mixture to a pot to simmer uncovered, stirring regularly until thickened to a spreadable consistency.

Notes

  • Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor without added sugar.
  • Use fresh ground spices for the best aroma and potency.
  • Stir the mixture occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust thickness by cooking longer or simmering uncovered to reach your preferred consistency.
  • Cool completely before storing to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple butter, maple apple butter, slow cooker recipes, fall recipes, natural sweet spread, homemade apple spread, vegan apple butter