Sweet and Tangy Apple Butter
This apple butter recipe reminds me of those crisp fall mornings when the air smells like apples and leaves. I started making it a few years ago, and now it’s kind of a tradition. I just toss everything in the Crock Pot at night, and by the time I wake up, the whole house smells like a cozy fall day. I keep it a little tart because, well, that’s how I like it, but feel free to make it as sweet as you want! It’s not fussy—just simple, homemade goodness that beats anything you’d find at the store.
6 Servings
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 lbs apples peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract optional
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Equipment
- Crockpot
Instructions
Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into even pieces for consistent cooking.
Mix Ingredients in Crock Pot:
- Add the chopped apples to the Crock Pot. Then, pour in the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract (if using), ground cloves, and salt. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Initial Cook on High:
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on high for one hour.
Long Simmer on Low:
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-11 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The apples will become soft, thick, and dark in color.
Uncover and Thicken:
- Uncover the Crock Pot and continue cooking on low for another hour to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate and the apple butter to thicken further.
Blend Until Smooth:
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth, depending on your preferred texture.
Store Properly:
- Spoon the apple butter into clean jars or containers. Allow it to cool before storing in the refrigerator or freezing for later use.
Notes
This apple butter recipe is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients—apples, sugar, spices—are gluten-free by nature. Just be sure to double-check that your spices and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free, as sometimes they can have cross-contamination. But otherwise, you’re good to go! Enjoy spreading it on your favorite gluten-free bread or snacks without worry.