This Old-Fashioned Apple Butter Recipe is slow-cooked to perfection with fresh apples, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla. Deeply spiced, thick, and spreadable—just like Grandma made!
There’s something about the smell of slow-cooked apples and warm spices that instantly takes me back. Growing up, fall wasn’t officially here until my mom had a batch of homemade apple butter simmering on the stove.
The kitchen would be warm from the bubbling pot, and that deep, spiced apple aroma would settle into every corner of the house. I remember standing on my tiptoes, watching her stir, desperate for a taste. And when it was finally ready? We’d slather it over fresh biscuits or eat it straight from the spoon (because, honestly, who has time for bread?).
Now, I make my own old-fashioned apple butter every year, and let me tell you—it’s way easier than you’d think. Whether you use a slow cooker or stovetop, it’s mostly hands-off. Just toss in the ingredients, let time do its thing, and prepare for your kitchen to smell like fall in a jar.
And trust me—once you try homemade apple butter, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Apple Butter Recipe?
- It’s ridiculously easy. The slow cooker does all the work for you.
- The flavor is unreal. Deep, caramelized apple goodness with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Thick & spreadable. Smoother than jam, richer than applesauce—just right.
- Perfect for gifting. Package it in cute jars, and suddenly, you’re the friend who gives out homemade treats like a pro.
- So many ways to enjoy it. Toast, biscuits, oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt…or straight from the spoon (no judgment).
Ingredient Notes:
Apples – The Star of the Show
A mix of sweet and tart apples makes the best apple butter. I love using Granny Smith for that slight tang and Honeycrisp or Fuji for natural sweetness.
Dark Brown Sugar – The Secret to That Deep, Rich Flavor
Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses that makes the apple butter taste richer and more caramelized. You can adjust the sweetness if you prefer it more or less sugary.
Cinnamon, Cloves & Nutmeg – The Cozy Trio
These warm spices give that signature apple butter flavor. Feel free to tweak the amounts depending on how spiced you like it!
Vanilla Extract – The Little Extra That Changes Everything
It’s subtle but so good. That tiny bit of vanilla rounds out the flavors and makes everything taste smoother.
Lemon Juice (Optional) – Helps Preserve the Apple Butter
If you’re planning to can your apple butter, a splash of lemon juice helps keep it fresh. If you’re just making a batch to eat in the next few weeks, you can skip it.
How To Make Old Fashioned Apple Butter?
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Peel, core, and slice 4 pounds of apples into chunks. If you have an apple peeler/corer, now’s the time to break it out. If not, throw on your favorite fall playlist and get peeling—it’s worth it!
Step 2: Cook the Apples Until Soft
Place the apple chunks in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Stovetop: Cook over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring every now and then.
Once they start breaking down, you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Want To Save This Recipe?
Grab an immersion blender and puree the apples right in the pot until smooth. No immersion blender? Carefully transfer the apples (in batches) to a blender or food processor. Just be careful—hot apples + steam = potential apple explosion.
Step 4: Add Spices & Sugar
In a bowl, mix together:
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Stir this spice blend into the apple puree.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Thick & Dark
- Stovetop: Keep cooking on low for 1-2 more hours, stirring often.
- Slow Cooker: Let it go on low for 6-8 more hours, stirring occasionally.
Your apple butter should darken in color and thicken into a rich, spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Test for Doneness
Place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready!
Step 7: Store or Can It
- For immediate use: Let it cool, then store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- For canning: Pour hot apple butter into sterilized jars, process in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes, then store in a cool, dark place.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 3 weeks in a sealed jar.
- Freezer: Store in freezer-safe jars for up to 6 months.
- Canning: Properly sealed jars last up to a year.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to experiment a little? Here are a few ideas:
- Maple Apple Butter: Swap some of the brown sugar for pure maple syrup.
- Cider-Spiced Apple Butter: Add ½ cup apple cider for an extra layer of fall flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Twist: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a shortcut.
- Less Sweet: Cut the sugar in half for a more naturally sweetened apple butter.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Apple Butter?
- Spread on warm biscuits, English muffins, or toast.
- Swirled into oatmeal or yogurt.
- As a glaze for pork chops or roasted chicken.
- Dolloped onto pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Used as a filling for cakes, crepes, or pastries.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have to peel the apples?
Nope! If you don’t mind a slightly more textured apple butter, you can leave the peels on and blend everything at the end.
Can I make this without sugar?
Yep! The apples naturally sweeten as they cook, so you can reduce or skip the sugar if you prefer.
Why is my apple butter too thin?
It just needs more time! Keep simmering until it thickens up.
If you’ve never made homemade old-fashioned apple butter, you’re in for a treat. It’s rich, cozy, and tastes like fall in a jar. And let’s be real—there’s something deeply satisfying about making it yourself.
So tell me—what’s your favorite way to eat apple butter? Let’s chat in the comments!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Old Fashioned Apple Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 pounds fresh apples approximately 8 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and sliced; a mix of sweet and tart apples such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp is recommended
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Optional 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for improved preservation when canning)
Instructions
Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform pieces. Using a mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the depth of flavor. If available, an apple corer and peeler can expedite this process.
Cook the Apples Until Soft
- Place the prepared apples into a large pot or slow cooker:
- Stovetop Method: Cook over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and begin to break apart.
- Slow Cooker Method: Set the slow cooker to low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Blend Until Smooth
- Once the apples have softened, use an immersion blender to puree them directly in the pot. If an immersion blender is unavailable, carefully transfer the apples in batches to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Exercise caution when blending hot mixtures.
Incorporate Spices and Sugar
- In a separate bowl, combine:✔️ Dark brown sugar✔️ Cinnamon✔️ Cloves✔️ Nutmeg✔️ Salt✔️ Vanilla extract
- Mix well, then add this spice mixture to the pureed apples, stirring thoroughly to combine.
Slow Cook Until Thickened
- Stovetop Method: Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 1-2 hours, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Slow Cooker Method: Continue cooking on low for 6-8 more hours, stirring occasionally to achieve the desired consistency.
- The apple butter should darken in color and thicken into a spreadable texture.
Check for Proper Consistency
- To test for readiness, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a moment. If it holds its shape and does not run, it is fully prepared.
Add Lemon Juice (Optional, for Canning)
- If planning to can the apple butter for long-term storage, stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice before proceeding to the next step.
Storage & Canning Options
- Refrigeration: Allow the apple butter to cool completely before transferring it into airtight jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Freezing: Transfer cooled apple butter into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months.
- Canning: Pour the hot apple butter into sterilized canning jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace. Wipe the rims, secure the lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes. Once cooled, store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
