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Apple butter is not merely a spread; it is a culinary tradition steeped in history. Originating as a means to preserve surplus apples in the fall, this concentrated form of apple sauce has evolved into a staple in many households. The process of cooking apples down with sugar and spices until they reach a thick, buttery consistency has been passed down through generations, symbolizing the harvest season's bounty.

Spiced Fall Crockpot Apple Butter

Embrace the flavors of fall with this cozy harvest apple butter recipe that turns simple apples into a delectable spread. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or holiday gifts, this rich preserve is easy to make in a crockpot, allowing the spices and natural sweetness to meld beautifully. Discover the ideal apple varieties and learn essential preparation steps to create a velvety butter that captures the warmth of autumn in every bite. Enjoy the nostalgia and comfort of homemade apple butter this season!
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Ingredients
  

6 medium-sized apples (preferably a mix of sweet and tart, like Fuji and Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped

1 cup of brown sugar

1/2 cup of granulated sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 cup apple cider

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apples: Start by washing, peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into small chunks. This will help them cook down evenly in the crockpot.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, apple cider, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugars.

      Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the apple mixture into your crockpot. Spread the apples out evenly at the bottom.

        Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours. The longer you cook it, the more intense the flavors will become, and the apples will break down into a smooth, thick butter.

          Blend to Desired Consistency: Once the cooking time is complete, check the apple butter. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree it to your liking. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches — just be careful as it's hot.

            Taste and Adjust: Give your apple butter a taste. If you’d like it sweeter, you can stir in more sugar; for a spicier flavor, add more cinnamon or nutmeg.

              Cool and Store: Let the apple butter cool before transferring it to sterilized jars. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or canned for longer shelf life.

                Enjoy: Enjoy your homemade spiced apple butter on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries. It also makes a wonderful gift!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 8-10 hours | Servings: Approximately 4-6 cups