Peach butter. Just the name conjures images of warm, sunny days and the sweet, comforting aroma of ripe peaches. Forget store-bought—making your own peach butter in a slow cooker is surprisingly easy and yields a far superior product. This recipe delivers a luxuriously smooth, intensely flavorful spread perfect for biscuits, toast, or even as a glaze for grilled meats. Let's dive into how to create this delicious homemade treat!
Why Make Crock Pot Peach Butter?
There are several compelling reasons to make your own peach butter using a slow cooker:
- Superior Flavor: Homemade peach butter boasts a richer, more intense peach flavor compared to commercially produced versions, often laden with added sugars and preservatives. You control the sweetness and ingredients!
- Simplicity: The slow cooker does most of the work! Minimal stirring and hands-on time are required.
- Cost-Effective: Buying peaches in season and making your own butter is often cheaper than purchasing comparable jars of peach butter from the store.
- Customization: Adjust sweetness, spice levels (cinnamon, nutmeg are popular additions!), and even add other fruits for unique flavor combinations.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 6 pounds ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 12-15 medium peaches) – Look for those perfectly ripe, juicy peaches!
- 4 cups granulated sugar (adjust to your desired sweetness)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (this helps with setting and adds a subtle tang)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, adds warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for a deeper spice note)
Step-by-Step Crock Pot Peach Butter Recipe:
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Prepare the Peaches: Wash and peel the peaches. You can peel them using a vegetable peeler or by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunging them into ice water. Once peeled, slice the peaches into roughly 1/2-inch thick pieces.
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices (if using). Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-12 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the peaches are completely softened and have broken down into a smooth butter consistency. Stir occasionally, especially during the first few hours, to prevent sticking.
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Puree (Optional): For an ultra-smooth butter, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the slow cooker once it's cooked. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor in batches.
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Jarring: Once the peach butter has reached your desired consistency, carefully ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing (this step is crucial for long-term storage).
Tips for Peach Butter Success:
- Peach Selection: Use ripe, but not overripe, peaches for the best flavor and texture. Overripe peaches can result in a less flavorful and potentially runny butter.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the sugar amount according to your preference and the sweetness of your peaches. Taste the mixture as it cooks and add more sugar if needed.
- Spices: Experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect blend. A dash of allspice or ginger can also add interesting complexity.
- Storage: Properly sealed jars of peach butter can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year.
Enjoy Your Homemade Crock Pot Peach Butter!
This recipe provides a delicious and rewarding way to preserve the taste of summer. Spread it on your morning toast, use it as a glaze for pork tenderloin, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful! The possibilities are endless. Let us know in the comments how your peach butter turns out!
