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As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of apple butter simmering away in your kitchen. This beloved fall staple not only encapsulates the essence of the season but also offers a delightful way to preserve the bounty of autumn. Apple butter, with its rich, concentrated flavor, transforms simple apples into a luscious spread that can elevate your breakfast toast, enhance your favorite baked goods, or even serve as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Slow Cooker Apple Butter – Fall in a Jar!

Capture the essence of fall with homemade slow cooker apple butter! This delightful spread transforms simple apples into a rich, velvety treat perfect for toast, pastries, or as a thoughtful gift. The slow cooking method intensifies the flavors, filling your home with comforting aromas. Easy to make, this recipe encourages experimentation with apple varieties and spices, ensuring every jar is uniquely delicious. Embrace the season and savor this classic autumn favorite!
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Ingredients
  

6 lbs of apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balance)

1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apples:

    - Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples into small chunks.

      - You can choose to leave the peel on for added texture; just ensure they are well washed.

        Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

          - In a large slow cooker, combine the apple chunks, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.

            - Mix well to ensure the flavors are distributed throughout the apples.

              Cook the Mixture:

                - Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally. If your slow cooker has a stirring function, use that!

                  Blend Until Smooth:

                    - After the apple mixture has cooked down and is soft, use an immersion blender to puree the apple butter until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious, as it will be hot!

                      Cook Down Further:

                        - Once blended, return the apple butter to the slow cooker (if using a regular blender) and continue to cook on low for an additional 2 to 3 hours with the lid slightly ajar. This helps it thicken to your desired consistency.

                          Check for Sweetness and Spice:

                            - Taste the apple butter and adjust the sweetness or spices as necessary, adding more sugar or spice to your preference.

                              Store the Apple Butter:

                                - Once the apple butter is thick and delicious, let it cool slightly.

                                  - Transfer it to sterilized jars and seal tightly. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or processed for long-term storage using canning methods.

                                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 10 hours | about 6 cups