If you are a fan of cozy, comforting flavors that instantly transport you to a crisp autumn afternoon, then you are going to adore this Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter. This luscious spread captures the rich warmth of cinnamon combined with the natural sweetness and tartness of apples, slow-cooked to perfection until beautifully smooth and deeply flavorful. Whether slathered on warm toast, dolloped over oatmeal, or gifted in charming jars, this Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter is a kitchen staple that brings joy and a touch of homemade magic to any moment.

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this irresistibly fragrant Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients that highlight each other perfectly. Each element plays an essential role, balancing sweetness, spice, and the apple’s natural brightness for that classic fall flavor.

Apples: About 5 to 6 pounds peeled, cored, and sliced—your base for rich, buttery texture and flavor.

Brown sugar: A full cup adds deep molasses notes that enhance sweetness and color.
Granulated sugar: Between ½ and 1 cup, adjustable to taste, ensures the right level of sweetness without overpowering.

Ground cinnamon: 1 to 1½ tablespoons, the star spice for that warm, inviting aroma and taste.
Ground nutmeg: Just half a teaspoon for subtle earthiness that rounds out the spices.

Ground cloves: A quarter teaspoon brings a hint of spice that’s unmistakably cozy.
Salt: A pinch to balance and elevate all the sweet and spicy notes.
Vanilla extract (optional): One teaspoon added at the end for a luscious depth and extra smooth finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing 5 to 6 pounds of fresh apples. Using a slow cooker with a 5 to 6-quart capacity works best to hold all your fruit comfortably. The preparation sets the foundation for a smooth texture once the apples are fully cooked down.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Spices

In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. This spice mix not only sweetens the apples but infuses them with that classic autumn aroma that defines apple butter.

Step 3: Combine Apples with Spice Mixture

Toss your sliced apples with the sugar-and-spice mixture right inside the slow cooker. Make sure the apples are evenly coated as this helps the flavors deeply penetrate during the slow cooking process.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the apples cook for 8 to 10 hours or, if you’re short on time, cook on high for about 5 hours. The apples should become tender and darkened, reducing to a soft consistency that’s rich and full of flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Thicken

Stir in one teaspoon of vanilla extract if you’re using it. Remove the lid and continue cooking on low for another 2 hours. This uncovered simmer thickens the mixture, concentrating the flavors until your apple butter is perfectly spreadable.

Step 6: Puree Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker or transfer the mixture to a blender for a smooth finish. The creamy texture is what makes apple butter so irresistible, and this step guarantees a silky spread with no chunks.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If your apple butter still feels too loose after blending, cook uncovered on high for up to an hour more. Keep an eye on it, stirring frequently, until the consistency is thick and luscious enough to spread effortlessly.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Let your Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter cool slightly before spooning it into jars or airtight containers. It’s ready to enjoy right away or save for later treats!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter

Garnishes

Elevate your apple butter by adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or a light dusting of cinnamon on top when serving. These simple garnishes amplify the rustic charm and invite guests to indulge in its aroma and taste.

Side Dishes

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm biscuits, or even creamy oatmeal. It’s a perfect companion for breakfast or afternoon snacks. Try it alongside roasted pork or sweet potatoes for a deliciously balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual toast. Swirl this apple butter into yogurt or ice cream for an unexpected twist. Dollop it over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup, or use it as a filling in homemade pastries for a seasonal surprise everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy multiple breakfasts or snacks without any hassle.

Freezing

You can also freeze apple butter for longer storage. Use freezer-safe jars or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen apple butter lasts up to six months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge for convenient use when needed.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your apple butter again, gently reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat or briefly in the microwave. Stir occasionally to warm evenly without scorching, and enjoy the comforting flavors like it’s fresh from the slow cooker.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith creates the best flavor complexity and balance in your Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter.

Is it necessary to peel and core the apples?

While peeling and coring yields the smoothest texture, you can leave the skins on for more fiber and a slightly rustic feel, but be prepared for a chunkier spread that might need extra blending.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook the apples in a heavy-bottomed pot on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. It will require more attention but achieves similar delicious results.

How long does the Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter last once opened?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will last about two weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination and extend its shelf life.

Can I adjust the sweetness in this recipe?

Certainly! Tailor the amount of brown and granulated sugar to your liking. Taste the apples before cooking and adjust sugars accordingly to keep the apple butter balanced but not overly sweet.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe inspires you to cozy up with a jar of homemade Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter. It’s a truly special spread that turns ordinary apples into an extraordinary treat full of warmth and sweetness. Once you try it, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy its comforting flavor throughout the seasons. Give it a go and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples cooking low and slow!

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 13 hours 20 minutes

Yield: About 4 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and flavorful Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Butter recipe that transforms fresh apples into a smooth, spiced, and naturally sweet spread perfect for toast, baking, or adding to your favorite dishes. Made easy with a slow cooker, this recipe infuses warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a cozy autumn treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

5–6 lb apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)

Sweeteners

1 cup brown sugar
½–1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

Spices

1–1½ tbsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves

Pinch of salt

Optional

1 tsp vanilla extract (added at end)

Instructions

Prepare apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples, then place them into a 5–6 quart slow cooker.

Mix spices: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt to create the spice mixture.
Combine apples and spices: Toss the spice mixture evenly with the sliced apples in the slow cooker to coat all pieces thoroughly.
Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and their color has darkened.

Add vanilla and thicken: Stir in vanilla extract if using, then uncover and continue cooking on low for another 2 hours to allow the mixture to thicken further.
Puree the mixture: Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree the apple butter until smooth and creamy.
Adjust consistency: If the apple butter is still too loose, cook uncovered on high for an additional 30 to 60 minutes until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Cool and store: Allow the apple butter to cool slightly before spooning it into jars or airtight containers for storage.

Notes

Adjust the amount of granulated sugar according to the sweetness of your apples and personal preference.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.

If you want a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture with a blender instead of pureeing completely smooth.
Store apple butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Make sure to stir the apple butter occasionally during cooking to prevent burning on the edges.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 hours (low) plus 2 additional hours plus up to 1 hour additional thickening
Category: Condiment, Spread

Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons

Calories: 70
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 25mg

Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g

Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: apple butter, slow cooker apple butter, cinnamon apple spread, spiced apple butter, fall recipes, homemade apple butter