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crock pot peach butter recipe

crock pot peach butter recipe

3 min read 01-02-2025
crock pot peach butter recipe

Peach butter. Just the name conjures up images of warm, sunny days and the sweet, comforting taste of summer. And the best part? Making it is easier than you think, especially with the help of your trusty slow cooker! This recipe delivers perfectly smooth, intensely flavorful peach butter, requiring minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Forget those store-bought jars – once you taste homemade crock pot peach butter, you'll never go back.

Why Make Crock Pot Peach Butter?

Several reasons make this method superior:

  • Effortless Process: The slow cooker does all the work! Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it (almost!). No need for constant stirring or monitoring.
  • Intense Flavor: Slow cooking allows the peaches to break down completely, releasing their maximum flavor potential. The result is a richer, more concentrated taste than you'd get with other methods.
  • Perfect Consistency: The low and slow cooking ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency every time, without any gritty bits.
  • Less Mess: Compared to stovetop methods, the slow cooker significantly reduces mess and cleanup.

Ingredients for the Best Crock Pot Peach Butter

This recipe is designed for a 6-quart slow cooker. Adjust accordingly for larger or smaller models.

  • 6 pounds ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 12-15 medium peaches) Tip: Choose peaches that are slightly overripe for maximum sweetness.
  • 4 cups granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional, for a warmer spice note)

Step-by-Step Crock Pot Peach Butter Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peaches: Wash, peel, and slice the peaches. Removing the skins is crucial for a smooth final product. You can easily peel peaches by blanching them briefly in boiling water, then plunging them into ice water. The skins will slip right off!

  2. Combine Ingredients: Add the sliced peaches, sugar, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice (if using) to your slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

  3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the peaches are completely broken down and the mixture has thickened significantly. Stir occasionally, especially during the last couple of hours, to prevent sticking.

  4. Puree (Optional): For an ultra-smooth consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the peach butter directly in the slow cooker once it's finished cooking. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.

  5. Canning (Optional): If you wish to preserve your peach butter for longer storage, follow safe canning procedures. Ensure your jars and lids are sterilized before filling. Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath according to your preferred canning method. Always consult a reliable canning resource for safe and accurate instructions.

Tips for Peach Butter Perfection

  • Peach Variety: While any peach variety will work, those known for their sweetness and aroma will yield the best results.
  • Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the sugar quantity to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet peach butter, start with 3 cups and add more to taste at the end.
  • Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like cardamom, ginger, or cloves for unique flavor profiles.
  • Storage: If not canning, store your peach butter in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. It also freezes beautifully!

Enjoy Your Homemade Crock Pot Peach Butter!

This incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make crock pot peach butter is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even using as a glaze for meats. The rich, sweet, and slightly tangy taste will transport you straight to a summer peach orchard. Enjoy!

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