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Homemade Crockpot Apple Butter in a mason jar with a spoon, placed on a wooden board, warm and inviting light

Homemade Crockpot Apple Butter

This Homemade Crockpot Apple Butter is a time-saving delight, requiring just 15 minutes of prep and yielding a perfectly spiced, velvety smooth spread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 lb. mixed apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 12 apples)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Immersion blender
  • Sealable jars or containers

Method
 

  1. Place the apples, both sugars, vanilla, spices, and salt directly into your slow cooker. Toss the mixture until the apples are coated evenly with spices and sugar.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours. The apples should become golden, tender, and start falling apart.
  3. Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and pause to release steam from the lid.
  4. Pour the finished apple butter into jars or containers. Cool to room temperature before sealing tightly.
  5. Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 8 months.

Notes

Don’t lift the lid: Resist temptation! Keeping the cover on traps steam, which helps soften the apples and thicken the butter. Cook low and slow: Always use the low setting for deeper, caramelized notes. High heat can make the apple butter too watery. Prep ahead: Slice your apples the night before and store them in lemon water to prevent browning. Batch it: Double the recipe and freeze portions for later—you'll thank yourself in winter. Spices to taste: Adjust the spices to your liking if you prefer more cinnamon or less clove.