Name: Cinnamon Spiced Apple Butter in the Slow Cooker
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 h
Total time: 10 h 50 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground allspice; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 5 lbs apples (about 12-15 medium apples), peeled, cored, and chopped

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this Cinnamon Spiced Apple Butter, crafted effortlessly in your slow cooker. This rich, velvety spread captures the essence of sweet apples, aromatic cinnamon, and cozy spices, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting during the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Spiced Apple Butter is a fall favorite that transforms simple apples into a luxurious, spreadable delight. The slow cooker does all the work, filling your home with an irresistible aroma as the apples simmer to perfection. Its versatility shines—use it on toast, pancakes, or as a glaze for meats. The recipe is beginner-friendly, requires minimal prep, and yields a generous batch for sharing or savoring over weeks. Plus, it’s naturally sweetened and customizable, making it a wholesome, crowd-pleasing treat for cozy gatherings or quiet mornings.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for balanced flavor.
Peel for Smoothness: Peeling apples ensures a silky texture, but leave skins on for a rustic, fiber-rich version.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste midway and adjust sugar or honey to suit your preference.
Stir Occasionally: Stir every few hours to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Test Consistency: Spoon a bit onto a plate; it should hold its shape without being runny.
Use a Blender: For ultra-smooth apple butter, blend the mixture after cooking.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
Slow Cooker Liner: Use a liner for easy cleanup.
Low and Slow: Cook on low for best flavor development; avoid rushing on high.
Sterilize Jars: For canning, sterilize jars to extend shelf life.

Yield: 5 cups

Cinnamon Spiced Apple Butter in the Slow Cooker

Velvety apple butter with warm cinnamon and spices, slow-cooked to perfection for a cozy, spreadable fall treat.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 10 hours

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 10 hours 50 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp lemon juice
5 lbs apples (about 12-15 medium apples), peeled, cored, and chopped

Instructions

Gather Your Apples: Start with fresh, firm apples—Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are a winning combo. Wash, peel, core, and chop them into small chunks for even cooking.
Load the Slow Cooker: Toss your chopped apples into a 6-quart slow cooker. The pile might look massive, but it’ll cook down beautifully.
Add Sweetness and Spice: Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt over the apples. Drizzle in the lemon juice and vanilla extract for that extra zing.
Stir It Up: Give everything a good stir to coat the apples evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it work its magic for 10-12 hours. Your kitchen will smell like fall heaven!
Check and Stir: Halfway through, give the mixture a stir to prevent sticking. The apples should be softening and breaking down.
Test the Texture: After 10 hours, check the consistency. It should be thick and spreadable. If it’s too runny, cook uncovered for another hour.
Smooth It Out: For silky apple butter, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth. Prefer it chunky? Skip this step.
Cool and Jar: Let the apple butter cool slightly, then spoon it into sterilized jars or airtight containers. Seal tightly for storage.
Enjoy or Gift: Spread this deliciousness on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or package it in cute jars for a heartfelt homemade gift.

Notes

Use a mix of apple varieties for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Adjust spices to taste; a little extra cinnamon never hurts!
For canning, follow USDA guidelines to ensure safety.
If freezing, leave 1/2-inch headspace in containers.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be vegan with the right sugar.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 383Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 133mgCarbohydrates 100gFiber 12gSugar 83gProtein 1g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Apples: Fresh, firm apples like Fuji, Gala, or McIntosh work beautifully, offering natural sweetness and robust flavor. A mix of varieties adds depth.
Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness; light or dark works, with dark providing richer notes.
Cinnamon: The star spice, delivering warm, cozy flavor; use freshly ground for maximum potency.
Nutmeg and Allspice: These enhance the autumnal vibe; freshly grated nutmeg elevates the taste.
Lemon Juice: Brightens flavors and balances sweetness; fresh is best for zesty notes.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and complexity; pure extract is preferred over imitation.
Salt: A pinch enhances flavors, making the sweetness pop without being noticeable.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, swap apples for pears or combine both for a unique flavor profile. If you prefer less sugar, use honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners, adjusting to taste. For a vegan version, ensure your sugar is unrefined and vegan-friendly. Add a splash of apple cider for deeper flavor or a pinch of ginger for a spicy kick. If cinnamon isn’t your favorite, try cardamom for an exotic flair. For a boozy twist, stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or apple brandy near the end. If canning, follow proper guidelines for safety.

Storage Options

Store apple butter in airtight containers or mason jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months; leave headspace for expansion. If canning, process in a water bath for 10 minutes to store at room temperature for up to a year. Always check for spoilage before consuming.