Go Back
–+ servings
overhead view of wooden cutting board with glass jar of apple butter, silver knife, cinnamon sticks, surrounded by apples with black slow cooker in background
Print

Slow Cooker Apple Butter (So Easy!)

Homemade apple butter in the slow cooker is a timeless treat that brings the rich flavors of cozy fall right into your kitchen! Not only does it smell amazing, but the thick, caramelized spread is incredible served on warmed toast, biscuits, pancakes, and more!
Course Breakfast, Meal Prep
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 15 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 138kcal
Author Jennifer Draper

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • apple corer, peeler, or slicer

Ingredients

  • 5 pounds apples about 10–12 medium, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • ½ cup brown sugar adjust to taste depending on apple sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup for added depth and richness

Instructions

  • Add sliced, peeled apples to a 6-quart slow cooker
  • Sprinkle apples with brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt
  • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft and dark brown
  • Use an immersion blender (or transfer contents in batches to a blender) to puree until smooth
  • Stir in vanilla extract and maple syrup if desired, and cook uncovered on low for 1-2 more hours, until thickened to your liking
  • Let apple butter cool thoroughly and store in airtight jars in fridge or freeze

Notes

  • Store apple butter in airtight jars for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months, making sure containers or jars are tightly sealed.
  • Canning is an option for long-term storage. Use sterilized jars with a water bath and ensure all safety precautions are met.
  • Warm up the apple butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl if desired.
  • Use sweeter apples if preferred.
  • Use an immersion blender to puree directly in the slow cooker for convenience.
  • To thicken, cook uncovered on low for an additional 1-2 hours.
  • Stir occasionally throughout cooking to prevent burning along the edges.

Nutrition

Calories: 138kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 103IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.4mg