Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter is a rich, velvety spread made with apples, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s slow-cooked to perfection and perfect for toast, pancakes, and more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy hands-off slow cooker method
Deep, caramelized flavor
Great way to use up apples
No preservatives, fully homemade
Perfect for gifting or storing
Fills the home with an inviting aroma
Versatile use across sweet and savory dishes
Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground cloves
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Place apples in a slow cooker.
Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to coat the apples.
Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally.
Once apples are completely soft, use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée until smooth.
Cook uncovered on low for an additional 1–2 hours to thicken, stirring occasionally.
Stir in vanilla extract if using.
Let cool, then transfer to jars for storage.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 3–4 cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 hours
Total Time: 12 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar
Add apple cider for extra moisture and depth
Use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties
Make it spicier with extra cloves or ginger
Leave it chunky for a rustic-style apple preserve

Storage/Reheating

Store in sterilized jars in the fridge for up to 3 weeks
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months
Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave to loosen if needed

FAQs

What apples are best for apple butter?

A mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith works best.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, for the smoothest consistency.

Can I can this for shelf-stable storage?

Yes, with proper canning techniques and sterilized jars.

Is apple butter the same as applesauce?

No—apple butter is more concentrated, thicker, and richer in flavor.

Can I make this without sugar?

Yes, though the flavor and texture will vary—use natural sweeteners instead.

Can I use a pressure cooker?

Yes, using the slow cook setting or pressure cooking for quicker results.

What do I serve it with?

Toast, biscuits, yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, or cheese boards.

Can I use frozen apples?

Fresh apples are recommended for best flavor and texture.

How do I know when it’s thick enough?

It should mound up on a spoon and not slide off easily.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter is a delightful, homemade spread that celebrates the warmth of fall flavors. Easy to make and versatile in use, it’s a must-have condiment for your seasonal pantry.

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter

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A sweet, spiced spread made from slow-cooked apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar, perfect for toast, oatmeal, or gifting during the fall season.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10–12 hrs
Total Time: 10 hrs 20 mins
Yield: About 6 cups 1x
Category: Spread
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

6 lbs apples (about 12–14 medium), peeled, cored, and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Add chopped apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt to a slow cooker. Stir to coat apples evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft and dark brown.
Remove lid and puree the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches using a regular blender until smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract. If the apple butter is too thin, continue cooking uncovered on low for 1–2 more hours, stirring occasionally, until desired consistency is reached.
Let cool and transfer to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples (e.g., Fuji and Granny Smith) for balanced flavor.
No need to add liquid—apples release plenty of moisture as they cook.
Makes a great homemade gift during the holidays.