Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Butter Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Butter is a rich, flavorful spread that combines the warmth of cinnamon and cloves with the sweetness of caramel. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a gift, this recipe brings cozy fall flavors right to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds apples (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup caramel bits

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the apples start to break down, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, vanilla extract, and salt. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 8 to 10 hours.
3. Step 3: During the last hour of cooking, stir in the caramel bits. Leave the slow cooker lid off during this final hour to allow the mixture to thicken.
4. Step 4: Once cooked, allow the apple butter to cool. Place it in the refrigerator to chill. You can enjoy it as is or blend it for a smoother, creamier consistency.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier variation, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon and cloves.
• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji for a more balanced flavor.
• If you prefer a smoother spread, blend the apple butter before refrigerating.
• Adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of your apples or personal preference.

Storage

Store the caramel apple butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in airtight jars or containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Reheat gently if desired, but it’s delicious served cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make apple butter without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the apple mixture on the stovetop in a heavy pot over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This may take less time but requires more attention to avoid sticking.

What can I do with leftover apple butter?

Apple butter is versatile — spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal, use it as a filling for pastries, or add it to sauces and marinades for extra flavor.

Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Butter Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 143 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x

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Description

This Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Butter is a rich and flavorful spread made from tender apples slow-cooked with warm spices and sweet caramel bits. Perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or using as a delightful dessert topping, this recipe combines the comforting taste of cinnamon and cloves with smooth vanilla and caramel for a decadent twist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 3 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

• ½ cup caramel bits

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Instructions

1. Cook the apples: Place the peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook them until they start to break down, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to soften and release their juices.
2. Add dry ingredients and transfer: Stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, and vanilla extract with the cooked apples. Mix well, then transfer the entire mixture into a slow cooker.
3. Slow cook the mixture: Cook the apple mixture on the low setting of your slow cooker for 8 to 10 hours to develop deep flavors and achieve a thick, buttery texture.
4. Incorporate caramel bits: During the last hour of cooking, stir in the caramel bits. Leave the slow cooker lid off during this final hour to allow the mixture to thicken further and the caramel to blend smoothly.
5. Cool and optionally blend: Once cooked, allow the apple butter to cool completely, then refrigerate to chill. You can enjoy the apple butter as is, or for a smoother consistency, blend it until creamy before serving or storing.

Notes

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith, for balanced flavor.
• Leaving the slow cooker lid off during the last hour helps thicken the apple butter by evaporating excess moisture.
• You can store this apple butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer preservation.
• For a smoother texture, blending after cooling is recommended but optional based on preference.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar amount by up to ½ cup.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours 0 minutes
• Category: Spread
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: apple butter, slow cooker apple butter, caramel apple butter, apple spread, fall recipe, slow cooker spread