Slow Cooker Apple Butter

Steps

1. 1

   Chop the apples into roughly even pieces. Peeling is optional; leaving the skins on adds color and flavor. Prepare a large saucepan and a slow cooker.

2. 2

   Place the chopped apples, brown sugar, salt, apple cider, and water in the large saucepan. Set it over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. 3

   Once simmering, cover the saucepan with a lid left slightly vented. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very tender and fragrant.

   Start 20-minute timer
4. 4

   Transfer the softened apple mixture to the slow cooker. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.

5. 5

   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are deeply softened and the mixture is aromatic.

   Start 6-hour timer
6. 6

   Blend the cooked apples directly in the slow cooker with an immersion blender until completely smooth. Use care to avoid splashing the hot mixture.

7. 7

   Continue cooking uncovered, or with the lid well vented, for 2 additional hours so excess moisture evaporates and the apple butter thickens to a spreadable consistency.

8. 8

   Remove the slow cooker from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg, adjusting the spices to taste.

9. 9

   Let the apple butter cool, then transfer it to clean jars. Refrigerate before serving or storage.