Homemade Apple Butter Recipe

Introduction

Homemade apple butter is a rich, spiced spread made from slow-cooked apples. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into oatmeal, or adding a cozy touch to any dish.

Ingredients

• 6 1/2 pounds apples
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (105 grams)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (12 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (5 grams)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel, core, and slice the apples.
2. Step 2 (Slow Cooker): Place the apples in a slow cooker. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Step 3 (Slow Cooker): Cover and cook on low for about 10 hours, stirring every couple of hours. The apple butter should become thick and dark brown.
4. Step 4 (Slow Cooker): Blend the mixture with a blender until smooth if desired.
5. Step 5 (Instant Pot): Add the apples, sugars, cinnamon, salt, and 1/2 cup apple juice to the Instant Pot liner (reserve vanilla extract to add after cooking). Stir to coat.
6. Step 6 (Instant Pot): Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes.
7. Step 7 (Instant Pot): Use an immersion blender to purée until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
8. Step 8 (Instant Pot): Set the Instant Pot to “sauté” and simmer the apple butter for 8 to 10 minutes until thickened, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for more complex flavor.
• Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• For a smoother texture, blend thoroughly with an immersion or regular blender.
• If using the Instant Pot, the apple juice helps prevent the burn warning and ensures even cooking.

Storage

Store apple butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small containers. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples for apple butter?

Yes, you can use any apples you like. A combination of sweet and tart apples often gives the best flavor balance.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples helps create a smoother texture, but if you don’t mind a bit of texture, you can leave the skins on and blend well after cooking.

Homemade Apple Butter Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 147 reviews

This Homemade Apple Butter recipe delivers a rich, thick, and flavorful spread made from slow-cooked or Instant Pot-cooked apples, combined with cinnamon, sugars, and vanilla. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or using as a condiment, this apple butter is a wholesome and comforting treat made with simple ingredients and easy techniques.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 hours (slow cooker) or 35 minutes (Instant Pot including sautéing and natural release)
• Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes (slow cooker) or 55 minutes (Instant Pot)
• Yield: About 4 to 5 cups of apple butter 1x
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 6 1/2 pounds apples
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (105 grams)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (12 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (5 grams)
• 1/2 cup apple juice (only for Instant Pot method, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples carefully to ensure even cooking and smooth texture in the final apple butter.
2. Slow Cooker Method: Place the sliced apples in the slow cooker. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix everything well to combine the flavors evenly.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for about 10 hours, stirring every couple of hours. The apple butter should become thick and develop a deep dark brown color during this time.
4. Blending (Optional): Once cooked, if you prefer a smooth texture, use a blender or immersion blender to purée the apple butter until smooth.
5. Instant Pot Method: Add the sliced apples, sugars, cinnamon, and salt to the Instant Pot liner. Add 1/2 cup apple juice to prevent the burn warning. Mix to coat all the apples. Do not add vanilla yet.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow a natural release for 20 minutes.
7. Blend the Mixture: Use an immersion blender inside the Instant Pot to blend the softened apples into a smooth mixture.
8. Sauté to Thicken: Set the Instant Pot to ‘sauté’ mode and simmer the apple butter for 8-10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir frequently and watch carefully as it can bubble and splatter. If needed, turn off and let cool slightly before resuming to avoid burning.
9. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract after cooking to preserve its flavor.
10. Storage: Transfer apple butter to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze in small portions for longer storage. Follow canning instructions if preserving by canning.

Notes

• Using fresh, tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart apples yields the best flavor.
• The apple juice in the Instant Pot method prevents burning and is optional in the slow cooker method.
• Adjust cinnamon and sugar to taste depending on apple sweetness.
• If blending apple butter, use caution with hot liquids. Let cool slightly or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
• Stirring regularly in slow cooker prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
• Store properly in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Keywords: apple butter, homemade apple butter, slow cooker apple butter, Instant Pot apple butter, fall recipes, apple spread, fruit butter