A delightful and easy-to-make spiced apple butter, perfect for spreading on toast or using as a topping.
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
Place the apple pieces into the slow cooker.
Layer the apples evenly for consistent cooking.
Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and salt to the slow cooker.
Stir the mixture to coat the apples evenly with the spices.
Cover and cook on high for 1 hour.
This initial high heat helps to kickstart the cooking process.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and dark.
Cooking overnight is a convenient option.
If a smoother texture is desired, blend the mixture using a blender or immersion blender.
Blend in batches if using a standard blender to avoid overfilling.
Transfer the apple butter to sterile jars and seal.
Ensure the jars are properly sterilized to extend shelf life.