Slow-Cooked Southern Apple Butter Delight
This Slow-Cooked Southern Apple Butter Delight is a cherished recipe that infuses the irresistible flavors of ripe apples with the warmth of spices, all crafted effortlessly in your crock pot. Ideal for slathering on warm biscuits, drizzling over pancakes, or simply enjoying by the spoonful, this homemade apple butter is a timeless addition to your pantry. With a rich, velvety texture and sweet-spicy notes, it's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Embrace the essence of Southern comfort food with this delightful spread that not only preserves the sweetness of autumn apples but also fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
8
Servings
375
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apples, cored and chopped
16 cups (Do not peel)
Apple cider
2 cups
Sugar
2 cups
Cinnamon
1 teaspoon
Cloves
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Start by placing the cored and chopped apples into your crock pot. Pour in the apple cider and stir gently to combine the ingredients.
2
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 10 to 12 hours, stirring occasionally if possible, until the apples become very soft.
3
After the cooking time is complete, use an immersion blender or a standard blender to puree the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Return the pureed apple mixture to the crock pot.
4
Add the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves to the apple puree. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5
Cover the crock pot again and continue to cook on low heat for an additional hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken.
6
Once finished, your apple butter will be ready! You can store it in sterilized jars, sealing them tightly to preserve freshness. It will keep in the refrigerator for several weeks.
7
For longer preservation, consider freezing the apple butter in freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
93.75g
Carbs
0.125g
Protein
62.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow-Cooked Southern Apple Butter Delight?
It is a cherished Southern recipe that slow-cooks ripe apples with cider and spices in a crock pot until they reach a rich, velvety consistency.
Do I need to peel the apples for this recipe?
No, the recipe specifically states to core and chop the apples but do not peel them, as the skins provide texture and nutrients.
What type of apples work best for apple butter?
While any ripe apple works, varieties that soften easily like Fuji, Gala, or McIntosh are excellent for achieving a smooth texture.
How many cups of apples are required?
You will need 16 cups of cored and chopped apples for this recipe.
Can I substitute apple cider with something else?
If apple cider is unavailable, you can use unsweetened apple juice as a substitute.
How long does the apple butter cook in the crock pot?
The initial cook time is 10 to 12 hours on low heat, followed by an additional hour after pureeing and adding spices.
What spices are used in this Southern apple butter?
This recipe uses 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.
When do I add the sugar and spices?
Add the sugar, cinnamon, and cloves after the apples have been cooked for 10-12 hours and pureed.
What is the best way to puree the cooked apples?
An immersion blender is the easiest tool to use directly in the crock pot, but a standard blender also works well.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, all ingredients including apples, cider, sugar, and spices are plant-based.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 375 calories.
Does this apple butter contain any fat?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fat.
How much sugar is in each serving?
There are 62.5 grams of sugar per serving.
How should I store the finished apple butter?
Store it in sterilized jars with tight seals in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Can I freeze the apple butter for longer storage?
Yes, you can freeze the apple butter in freezer-safe containers for several months.
Do I need to stir the apples while they cook?
Stirring occasionally is recommended if possible, though the low heat of the crock pot allows for minimal supervision.
What can I serve with apple butter?
It is delicious on warm biscuits, pancakes, toast, or enjoyed by the spoonful.
Is there any protein in this recipe?
There is a minimal amount of protein, approximately 0.125g per serving.
Can I use a high heat setting to cook faster?
The recipe recommends low heat for 10-12 hours to properly caramelize the sugars and soften the apples without burning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I know when the apple butter is finished?
It is ready when it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency and the flavors have melded after the final hour of cooking.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to taste, though it may affect the thickness and preservation time of the spread.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 93.75g of carbohydrates.
Does the recipe require sodium?
No, there is no added sodium in this recipe.
What makes this a 'Southern' style recipe?
Its focus on slow-cooking, warm spices, and its traditional use as a spread for biscuits are hallmarks of Southern comfort food.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, substituting brown sugar will result in a deeper, more molasses-like flavor profile.
Is there any cholesterol in this apple butter?
No, this apple butter is cholesterol-free.
How much apple cider is used?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of apple cider.
Why is an immersion blender recommended?
An immersion blender allows you to puree the hot mixture directly in the crock pot, saving time and reducing cleanup.