Gift Slow Cooker Apple Butter

Prepare the slow cooker by placing apples inside and setting it to Low mode, allowing them to become extremely tender after approximately 18 hours of cooking time.

Next, take the apples that have been cooked and blend them into a smooth consistency using a blender or food processor. Return the blended apples to the slow cooker and mix in sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.

Continue to cook the mixture on Low for an additional 4 hours, or until it reaches a thick and syrupy consistency.

Prepare the jars by submerging them in boiling water for at least 5 minutes to ensure they are properly sterilized. Fill the hot, sterilized jars with the apple butter mixture, leaving a small gap between the top of the jar and the lid. Use a knife or thin spatula to remove any air bubbles that may be trapped inside the jar.

Clean the rims of the jars with a damp paper towel to remove any food residue, then place the lids on top and screw them securely in place.

Place a rack at the bottom of a large pot filled with water, and fill it halfway to create a makeshift canning station. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully lower the jars into the boiling water using a canning holder. Leave about 2 inches of space between each jar to allow for expansion during the canning process.

Add more boiling water if necessary to bring the water level up to at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a rolling boil, cover the pot with a lid, and process for 10 minutes.

Once the jars have cooled down, place them on a cloth-covered or wood surface several inches apart to allow for proper cooling and settling. Check the seals of each jar by pressing down on the top with your finger; if the lid does not move up or down, it is properly sealed. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark area to preserve their quality.