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Slow cooker apple butter in a jar

Small Batch Low-Sugar Apple Butter (Slow Cooker Recipe)

This slow cooker small batch low-sugar apple butter is an easy, healthy spread perfect for toast, pancakes, and more. Simple ingredients and full of warm fall flavors!
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Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Apple butter, chunky apple butter, healthy apple butter, low sugar apple butter, low sugar recipes, slow cooker apple butter, slow cooker recipes, small batch apple butter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Servings: 32 tablespoons
Calories: 16kcal

Equipment

  • 1 1 to 2 quart slow cooker (small)

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds apples (3 medium or 4 small) cored, partially peeled, and diced into chunks (see notes)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup, substitute honey'
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1.5 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  • Add the diced apples to a 1 to 2-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle spices evenly over the apples.
  • Pour the maple syrup and molasses on top of the apples, stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, until apples are tender.
  • Turn off the slow cooker, remove the lid, and allow the apples to cool for a few minutes. Using an immersion blender, puree the apples (directly in the slow cooker) until smooth.
    Alternatively, you can transfer the apples to a blender to puree them. If you do the latter option, take care as the apples will be hot. Return the apples to the slow cooker after blending.
  • Turn the slow cooker back on low and cook, uncovered, for another 1 to 2 hours until thick and caramelized. If your mixture still appears runny, continue cooking until your desired consistency.
  • Turn off the slow cooker and let the apple butter cool for 30 minutes. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. You can freeze the apple butter in an airtight container (leave about 1/2 inch of room at the top) for up to 3 months. To defrost, remove from the freezer and allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Notes

  • Apple Varieties:
    Sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best for a naturally sweet apple butter. For a tangier flavor, mix in tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn.
  • Peeling Apples:
    Partially peeling the apples adds texture to the final product while maintaining smoothness. Completely peel them if you prefer a silky consistency. Leaving some peel on increases pectin content, naturally helping to thicken the butter.
  • Sweetener Options:
    Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or brown sugar. Adjust to taste based on the sweetness of your apples.
  • Cooking Time:
    Depending on your slow cooker, the cooking time may vary. Check the apples for softness before pureeing.

Nutrition

Calories: 16kcal