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 cups1x
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
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.