Ingredients:
- 6 pounds apples (approximately 12 large), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Apples:
- Place the peeled, cored, and chopped apples into a large slow cooker.
Mix the Spices and Sugars: 2. In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground allspice, and salt. 3. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples in the slow cooker and stir until the apples are evenly coated.
Cook the Apples: 4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 10-12 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples become very soft and turn a deep brown color. If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 hours to achieve the desired thickness.
Blend the Apple Mixture: 5. Use an immersion blender to puree the cooked apples until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the mixture in batches using a regular blender.
Add Vanilla and Caramel: 6. Stir in the vanilla extract and caramel sauce until well incorporated.
Thicken the Apple Butter: 7. If the apple butter is still too thin, continue cooking uncovered on low for another 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Cool and Store: 8. Allow the apple butter to cool to room temperature. 9. Transfer it to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Serve: 10. Enjoy the salted caramel apple butter on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or as a dessert topping. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before serving.
4o