Homemade Apple Butter – Sweet, Cozy, and So Simple!

There’s something magical about making your own apple butter at home. The smell of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla slowly cooking fills the whole kitchen with cozy fall vibes (even if it’s summer!). This recipe is super simple, doesn’t need any fancy ingredients, and is made in a crockpot which means it’s mostly hands-off. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or spooning it over pancakes, this homemade apple butter will become your new favorite thing!

Method

Prepping the Apples

To start, grab 7 small apples and give them a good rinse. There’s no need to peel them keeping the skins adds flavor, color, and a bit of extra nutrition. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, dice the apples into small chunks, about the size of a sugar cube. Smaller pieces help the apples cook down more evenly and blend up smoother later. Once your apples are all diced, go ahead and toss them into the crock pot.

Adding the Good Stuff

Next, it’s time to flavor things up! Add 1/4 cup of water to the crock pot to keep things moist and help the apples start softening. Then sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 2/3 cup of granulated sugar (I used cane sugar, but regular white sugar works too). Finally, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a spoon to give everything a thorough stir, making sure the sugar and spices are evenly coating all those lovely apple chunks.

Slow Cooking – Part One

Now the magic begins! Put the lid on your crock pot and set it to low heat. Let the apples cook low and slow for 5 hours. During this time, the apples will soften, break down, and soak up all the warm spice and sweet flavors. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing! You don’t need to stir during this part, so feel free to go about your day and let the crock pot do the work.

Blending the Apples

After the 5-hour cook time is up, it’s time to make everything creamy. Carefully remove the lid and check that the apples are super soft and mashable. Now, using a high-powered blender or an immersion blender, purée the apples until the mixture is velvety smooth. If you’re using a regular blender, let the apples cool slightly first and work in small batches never fill the blender more than halfway with hot contents to avoid accidents. If you’re using an immersion blender, you can blend directly in the crock pot (just be gentle around the edges to avoid scratching).

Slow Cooking – Part Two (Thickening)

Once your apple butter is beautifully smooth, pour it back into the crock pot (if you used a separate blender). Set the heat to high and cook for 1 more hour, uncovered. This step is super important it lets extra liquid cook off so your apple butter thickens and gets that rich, caramelized flavor. Stir once or twice during this time to prevent any sticking around the edges.

Cooling and Storing

When the hour is up, turn off the crock pot and let the apple butter cool slightly. Once it’s not piping hot, transfer it into clean jars or airtight containers. Let it cool completely before sealing and storing in the fridge. It’ll keep for a couple of weeks in the fridge or you can freeze it for longer storage!

Necessary Tools

• A crock pot (slow cooker)
• A sharp knife and cutting board (for dicing the apples)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• A high-powered blender or immersion blender
• A spoon for stirring
• A heat-safe bowl (if using a blender)

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on warm toast or biscuits
• Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
• Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
• Mix into muffins or cake batter for extra flavor
• Eat it by the spoon (seriously, it’s that good)

Fun Fact

Even though it’s called “apple butter,” there’s no butter in it! The name comes from how creamy and spreadable it is just like real butter.

Conclusion

Making homemade apple butter is super easy and incredibly rewarding. You get a tasty, healthy ish spread that’s full of flavor and made with love. Plus, your whole house will smell amazing! Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a kitchen pro, this recipe is a keeper. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!