Slow Cooker Peach Butter
There’s something truly magical about fruit butters, and if you haven’t yet discovered the delight of peach butter, you’re in for a treat. While apple butter tends to steal the spotlight in autumn, peach butter is summer’s sweet secret, bringing sunshine to your table with its luscious and addictive flavor. Best of all, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps and a trusty slow cooker, you can make a batch of peach butter that will keep you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, it’s incredibly easy. No need to stand over a stove stirring for hours. Just toss everything in a slow cooker and let it work its magic. Second, the taste is simply divine. The combination of fresh peaches with spices creates a rich and flavorful spread that pairs perfectly with biscuits, toast, or even cheese. It’s also customizable, so you can adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor or blender
- Slow cooker
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 4 pounds peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place sliced peaches in a food processor and pulse until blended and smooth.
- Transfer the peach purée to the slow cooker and stir in the sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, use a wooden spoon to prop the lid open and cook on high for another 1-2 hours, or until the mixture has thickened, stirring occasionally.
- If needed, purée the mixture again until smooth.
- Serve on biscuits, toast, or cheese and enjoy.
Tips for Success
Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If your peaches are not as sweet, you can adjust the amount of sugar to taste. Also, be patient with the thickening process; the longer you let the peach butter simmer with the lid slightly open, the thicker it will become.
Additional Tips or Variations
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract after cooking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact nutritional values can vary, peach butter is typically a low-calorie spread with an abundance of vitamins from the peaches and spices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
How should I store peach butter? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning or freezing your peach butter.
Can I use a stovetop instead of a slow cooker? Yes, but you’ll need to stir frequently and monitor the heat to prevent burning.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to let summer’s sweetness fill your kitchen? Give this slow cooker peach butter a try and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative ways you’ve enjoyed this delightful spread. Happy cooking!