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Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter

Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter
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Homemade Slow Cooker Maple Apple Butter is a rich, sweet, and cozy spread that perfectly captures the flavors of autumn. Made by slow cooking fresh apples with warm spices and pure maple syrup, this smooth and luscious butter is ideal for toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. The slow cooker does all the work to meld the natural sweetness and comforting aroma into a delicious, wholesome treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples and Sweeteners

  • 4 to 5 pounds fresh apples (a mix of sweet and tart such as Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

Spices and Flavorings

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Wash, core, and roughly chop the apples into even pieces. There is no need to peel the apples, as the skins will soften during cooking and contribute to the texture and color.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped apples in the slow cooker. Add maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine all the flavors evenly.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. Stir occasionally if possible. The apples will soften and break down, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma.
  4. Blend to Desired Consistency: Once the mixture is thick and caramelized, use an immersion blender or transfer it in batches to a food processor. Blend until smooth or leave it slightly chunky if preferred.
  5. Reduce Further (Optional): For thicker apple butter, cook uncovered on low for an additional 30 to 60 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning and to achieve the perfect spreadable texture.
  6. Cool and Store: Allow the apple butter to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Store refrigerated and enjoy.

Notes

  • Choose the right apples by mixing sweet and tart varieties for the best flavor and natural pectin.
  • Stir the apple mixture every couple of hours during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor development.
  • Cook slowly for a deep, rich, and sweet flavor.
  • Adjust spices gradually: start with less and add more midway if desired for a stronger aroma.
  • Cool apple butter completely before sealing jars to prevent condensation and spoilage.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple, apple butter, slow cooker, autumn, homemade spread, fall recipe, cinnamon, cozy, gluten free

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/homemade-slow-cooker-maple-apple-butter/