If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy blueberries, this Slow Cooker Blueberry Butter is the perfect recipe for you. Made with fresh blueberries and a few simple ingredients, this smooth and rich spread is perfect for toast, muffins, pancakes, or even stirred into yogurt. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, creating a thick, velvety butter that’s bursting with natural sweetness and flavor. Let’s dive into how you can easily make this delicious blueberry butter.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Blueberry Butter
- 4 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberries
- Rinse the fresh blueberries thoroughly and drain them well. If using frozen blueberries, make sure they are completely thawed.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- Place the blueberries in the slow cooker, then add the granulated sugar, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using).
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Blueberry Butter
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally. The blueberries will start to break down and become juicy.
- After 4-5 hours, remove the lid and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture to a blender, then return it to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Thicken the Butter
- Continue to cook uncovered on low for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the blueberry butter reaches your desired thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Once the blueberry butter has thickened, let it cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Sweetness Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the sugar and honey levels according to your taste. Blueberries can vary in sweetness, so you may want more or less sugar.
- Consistency: The longer you cook the blueberry butter uncovered, the thicker it will become. Be patient and let it reach the texture you prefer.
- Sterilizing Jars: If you plan to store the blueberry butter for an extended period, make sure to sterilize your jars to keep the butter fresh longer.
Variations
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
- Mixed Berry Butter: Combine blueberries with other berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a unique twist.
- Vanilla Blueberry Butter: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract after blending for a delicious hint of vanilla.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before using.
2. How Long Will Blueberry Butter Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, blueberry butter will last for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 6 months.
3. Can I Make This Recipe Without Sugar?
You can reduce or substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave. Keep in mind that the consistency and sweetness may vary.
4. What Can I Use Blueberry Butter For?
Blueberry butter is perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, pancakes, waffles, or mixing into yogurt and oatmeal. It’s also a great topping for cheesecake or ice cream!
Slow Cooker Blueberry Butter is a fantastic way to enjoy blueberries in a new and delicious form. The rich, fruity flavor makes it a wonderful addition to breakfasts, desserts, or even as a gift for friends and family. Best of all, it’s easy to make with minimal effort thanks to your slow cooker. Whip up a batch today, and enjoy the sweet taste of blueberries all year long.
Happy cooking!