Fall in love with this homemade Apple Butter recipe
Are you in the mood for something sweet and tangy? Do you crave the comforting taste of homemade goodies? If so, my Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe is just the thing for you!
As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I know a thing or two about perfecting delectable concoctions that’ll soothe your soul. And let me tell you, nothing’s quite as satisfying as making your own apple butter from scratch.
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with just the right amount of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a flavor explosion in your mouth. Plus, it’s super easy to make using a slow cooker – just throw all the ingredients in and let them simmer to perfection!
So whether you’re looking for a tasty breakfast spread or an ingredient to add depth to a savory dish, my Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter is sure to hit the spot. Follow along for detailed instructions and tips on how to make this irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear friends, let me tell you why this Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe is a must-try.
Firstly, let’s talk about the apples- the star ingredient of this recipe. This easy-to-find fruit brings a delicious natural sweetness to your homemade apple butter that cannot be replicated with any other ingredient. Adding cinnamon and cloves to the mix enhances the flavors making it like taking a bite of sweet Southern autumn in every spoonful.
Secondly, the slow cooker or crockpot method does all the heavy lifting for you. With minimal preparation time, you can place your apples and spices into your 6-quart crockpot, cover and cook on low for six hours. No need for constant stirring or attention. Just set it and forget it until your mouthwatering apple butter is ready to be enjoyed!
Thirdly, there are no preservatives or artificial flavors in this recipe, making it all-natural and perfectly healthy. You won’t even miss store-bought apple butter once you have tasted this homemade version!
Lastly, once you make this Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe, you will have plenty leftover to enjoy for days to come as it stores well in the fridge or freezer. It is also easy to can if one wants to preserve it for future use.
In conclusion, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a lazy yet tasty way to bring some Southern charm into their kitchen. Apple butter has been an important part of many family traditions across America; why not start creating these memories with your loved ones by making some homemade Apple Butter using this recipe today?
Ingredient List
For this Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 pounds of apples (Granny Smith varieties are best) peeled and cored, then sliced or chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
Make sure to use a 6-quart slow cooker for this recipe. Also, don’t forget the butter — for this easy crockpot apple butter recipe, you’ll need plenty of it!
The Recipe How-To
Before we begin with the recipe, let us first prepare the apples. We need 5 pounds of apples for this recipe. You may use any variety, but I highly recommend Granny Smith apples for the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Start by washing the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt and debris.
- Peel and core the apples using a peeler and corer.
- Slice the apples into small pieces or chunks.
Cooking the Apple Butter in a Slow Cooker
- Place the prepared apples inside a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Pour the mixture over the chopped apples and stir well to evenly coat them.
- Add 1 cup of apple cider to the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it on low heat.
- Allow it to cook for about 4-6 hours or until the apple mixture has turned into a rich and thick buttery consistency. Check on the mixture every hour and stir to prevent scorching at the bottom.
Final Step: Processing and Storing
Once cooked, turn off the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes before processing it into jars.
This apple butter is perfect for canning and can last for up to 9 months in shelf-stable conditions or you may store it in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 6 months.
And that’s it! You now have yourself an easy-to-make yet delicious Southern Crock Pot apple butter that can be enjoyed alone, spread onto toast or biscuits, or served as a dessert sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to put your own spin on this recipe, there are a few substitutions and variations that you can try out.
Instead of using all granulated white sugar, you can substitute some of it with brown sugar for a richer flavor. For those who prefer a more spicy taste, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon and clove mix.
In terms of apple varieties, Granny Smith apples are definitely the best choice as they have a naturally tart flavor that pairs well with the sweet sugar and spices in this recipe. However, if you can’t find Granny Smiths or prefer another type of apple, feel free to experiment with different varieties to find the one that suits your taste buds best.
If you’re looking for a healthier version of this recipe, swap out some of the sugar for apple sauce or apple cider, although keep in mind that it will change the consistency and sweetness levels of the final product.
For those interested in canning the apple butter for long-term storage, make sure to follow proper canning techniques and guidelines. However, if you’re just planning on storing it in the fridge or freezer for short-term use, you don’t need to worry about additional steps.
Overall, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you when making this easy crockpot apple butter recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have made a delicious batch of Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter, it’s time to sit back and enjoy! First and foremost, make sure to let the apple butter cool for a bit before you dig in. Once it’s cooled down, spread it on your favorite toast, bagel, or scone for a sweet and savory breakfast treat. It’s also the perfect addition to your PB&J sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
For a savory pairing, try spreading the apple butter on roasted pork chops or tenderloin. The sweetness of the apple butter is the perfect counterpart to the richness of the pork. You can also mix it into your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy yet sweet flavor. And don’t forget about dessert! Swirl the apple butter into your classic vanilla ice cream and sprinkle some cinnamon on top for a delectable treat.
Additionally, if you plan on making more than one batch (and trust me, you’ll want to!), consider canning the apple butter for future use. It will last up to 6 months in a sealed jar, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it whenever you please.
Overall, this Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter recipe is versatile and can be paired with many dishes. Experiment with different combinations and see what works best for your taste buds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
After you’ve made your delicious slow cooker apple butter, you might be wondering how to store it so that it lasts for future use. The good news is that this recipe can be made ahead of time, and reheated when necessary.
To store your apple butter, let it cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight jar or container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to six months. Make sure not to fill the jar all the way to the top, so there’s some space for expansion.
When reheating the apple butter, allow it to come to room temperature first. You can reheat it in a saucepan on low heat while stirring frequently until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it by placing it in a microwave-safe dish and heating it in 30-second intervals until warmed.
If you plan on canning your apple butter, make sure you follow safe procedures to avoid spoilage. Canning allows you to store your delicious apple butter without refrigeration, which makes it perfect for giving as a gift or storing for long periods of time.
Just remember that after opening the jar of canned apple butter, store any leftovers in a sealed container and consume them within seven days.
Now that you know how to properly store and reheat your delicious slow cooker apple butter, you’ll be able to enjoy its sweet and tangy flavor any time you want!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect Southern-style crockpot apple butter recipe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips that will take your apple butter from good to fantastic.
Tip 1: Use the Right Variety of Apples
Choosing the right type of apples is crucial for making delicious apple butter. For this recipe, I recommend using Granny Smith or Jonathan apples. They are firm and tart, which gives a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to your apple butter.
Tip 2: Peel and Core Your Apples Thoroughly
Before putting the apples in the crockpot, make sure to peel and core them thoroughly. This can be a tedious task, but trust me; it is necessary to achieve the desired result. Leaving the skin or core of the apples can ruin the texture of your apple butter.
Tip 3: Add Just Enough Spices
The classic spices for apple butter are cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These three spices complement each other perfectly and enhance the apple flavor. However, adding too much of any spice can overpower the other flavors in your recipe. Start with a small amount of each spice and increase if necessary.
Tip 4: Don’t Overcook
Cooking for too long can result in a burnt taste or an overly thick consistency. Set your crockpot’s timer according to the recipe instructions and check it occasionally during cooking. Stop cooking when you get the desired thickness or consistency.
Tip 5: Store Properly
Once made, store your apple butter properly as perishables quickly spoil within no time. Although the final version can last for months under proper refrigeration, it will spoil readily once kept outside refrigeration for too long.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to making perfect Southern-style crockpot apple butter every time you cook it!
FAQ
Now that you have all the necessary information to create a delicious batch of southern-style crockpot apple butter, let’s address some common questions that may arise during the cooking and storing process. These frequently asked questions will help you to avoid any common pitfalls and ensure your apple butter comes out perfectly every time. So, let’s dive into the FAQ section and get those questions answered!
How do you thicken apple butter in a crock pot?
Making slow cooker apple butter can be delicious, but the consistency can be tricky to get just right. To ensure a thick and luscious apple butter, you’ll need to thicken it. To do this, you’ll want to blend the apple butter and then cook it uncovered in a slow cooker on HIGH for about an hour, stirring occasionally. As it cools, it will further solidify into the perfect consistency.
What is the difference between applesauce and apple butter?
The contrast between applesauce and apple butter lies in their texture, consistency, and overall taste. Applesauce is a straightforward procedure involving cooked apples that are passed through a food mill. On the other hand, apple butter is a more concentrated version of apple sauce. It undergoes further cooking until it thickens, resulting in a silkier and richer apple flavor similar to the contrast between tomato paste and tomato sauce.
What’s the best apples for apple butter?
To make a delicious apple butter, choose softer types of apples that cook quickly, like Fuji and Golden Delicious. It’s best to combine different varieties to enhance the flavor profile. As apple butter requires prolonged cooking, softer apples work well since they break down faster.
Is apple butter a Southern thing?
Apple butter making has been a cherished mountain tradition in the Southern United States for centuries. Historically, it was produced on a large scale in open-air black iron pots during the autumn season.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe is the ultimate choice for anyone who loves the taste of homemade apple butter but doesn’t want to spend hours standing by the stove. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious, comforting breakfast spread in no time.
This recipe utilizes the versatility of the crockpot and combines it with the sweet and tangy taste of apples to create a delicious and aromatic spread that everyone in your family will love. With ingredients such as cloves, cinnamon, sugar, and apple cider, you can add depth to the flavors of your spread and truly make it your own.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also allows for personal customization. You can substitute different varieties of apples or adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your tastes.
So whether you’re making apple sauce or apple butter, this recipe has got you covered. And with its long shelf life, you can store it away for later or share it with your friends and family. Give it a try today and enjoy the incomparable taste of homemade Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter!
Southern Crock Pot Apple Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 cups cored and chopped apples, do not peel
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon clove
Instructions
- Combine apples and apple cider in crock pot.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10-12 hours.
- Puree and then return the mixture to the crock pot and add sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Cover, and cook on low for 1 hour.
- Apple Butter will keep for several weeks in your refrigerator or you can pour into hot, sterilized jars and seal.
- Can also be frozen in freezer containers.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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