Lucille's Apple Butter Recipe
If you’re looking for the perfect homemade spread to capture the essence of fall, Lucille's Apple Butter Recipe is just what you need.
Equipment
- Large slow cooker or heavy-bottomed pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Airtight jars for storage
- Apple peeler and corer (optional but helpful)
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional for extra smoothness)
Ingredients
- 6 pounds of apples a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar light or dark
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup apple cider or apple juice optional for extra moisture
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform chunks.
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker or pot, mix the apples, sugars, spices, and salt.
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are deeply softened and fragrant.
- Blend Smooth: Using an immersion blender, puree the apples until the mixture is silky smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the apples in batches to a blender.
- Reduce Further: With the lid slightly ajar, continue cooking for 1-2 more hours to thicken the apple butter, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cool and Store: Allow to cool slightly before transferring to sterilized jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate or can according to your preference.
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Low and slow is key for developing the rich flavor.
- Stir Regularly: Especially in the last few hours to avoid scorching at the bottom.
- Use a Splatter Guard: Apple butter thickens and may splatter—protect your kitchen and yourself.
- Taste and Adjust: Feel free to tweak the sugar and spice levels based on your apples’ sweetness and your taste preference.