Slow Cooker Apple Butter for Food Gifts

Recipe View 5 mins Place the chopped apples in a slow cooker. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Add the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 18 hrs Cover and cook on Low for 18 hours, or until the apples are very soft and easily mashed. (18 hours)

Recipe View 10 mins Use an immersion blender to puree the apples directly in the slow cooker until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the cooked apples to a regular blender or food processor in batches and puree until smooth, then return to the slow cooker. (10 minutes)

Recipe View 4 hrs Continue cooking on Low, uncovered, for another 4 hours, or until the apple butter has thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. (4 hours)

Recipe View If you plan to can the apple butter: Sterilize the canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep jars hot until ready to fill.

Recipe View Ladle the hot apple butter into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a clean utensil along the inside of the jar. Wipe the jar rims clean. Place lids on jars and screw bands on until fingertip tight.

Recipe View Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. Let cool completely before checking seals.

Recipe View If not canning: Let the apple butter cool completely, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.