Slow Cooker Maple Onion Jam

There is nothing more wonderful and thoughtful than a homemade gift. As I started to make this new recipe, I assumed I would just use it for homemade holiday gifts.

That was before I tasted it. This delicious jam is just bursting with layers of robust flavor. Amazingly HUGE flavor - and now I don't want to give any away!!

The good news is that this easy recipe is simple to make on repeat. It is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, easy and elegant. AND - the best budget-friendly gift! So you can make some for yourself and some to share.

📝Shopping list

To make this onion jam recipe, you will need:

• Sweet onions - diced
• Olive oil
• Pure maple syrup
• Apple cider vinegar
• Balsamic vinegar
• Cinnamon - ground
• Salt

🔪Instructions

Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray This is a great way to make your cleanup easier no matter what you are cooking.

Next, you will need to caramelize your onions. This can be done stove top in a large skillet or in your slow cooker. I prefer the slow cooker method! It is low and slow, requires no babysitting, and makes your house smell delicious without any splatter. Plus, no extra pot to scrub!😉

Use the olive oil and onions for this step and allow them to cook on low overnight. Leave the lid of your slow cooker slightly ajar to allow all the liquid to evaporate. You want your onions to be a golden brown color and a thick consistency. This took me about 14 hours to accomplish.

🍽Serving suggestions

When gifting slow cooker onion jam, I transfer the cool mixture into small gift jars tied with ribbon. It makes a great addition to a homemade gift basket. It is wonderful to bundle with jars of other homemade goodies like apple butter, candied pecans and chocolate dipped treats.

If you plan to keep some for yourself (like me!), there are limitless varieties of delicious ways to serve. It is a great addition to any charcuterie board. Or, just spread on baguette slices with some cheese and a tiny sprinkle of sea salt or black pepper.

We also like to use it as a dip for apple, pear, and red bell pepper slices. PLUS - It makes an incredible condiment or dip for grilled sharp cheddar or gruyere cheese sandwiches!

🔁Substitutions

1. If you don't have an immersion blender, a food processor or regular blender would work as well. Just be sure to transfer the mixture with care, as it will be hot!
2. While sweet onions, such as Vidalia onions, are best, in a pinch, you can use yellow onions or red onions.
3. White vinegar can also be substituted for apple cider vinegar if need be.

Storing

Store your slow cooker maple onion jam in airtight containers or jars in the refrigerator. It will last for several months that way. While I am not a canner, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for canning. If you choose to can it, I would love to hear your experiences in the comment section below!!

😉Hints & hacks

1.  Each crockpot is different. The first time you make this dish, you may need to watch it a little more closely. Try stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent anything from burning on the bottom. I have not experienced any burning issues when making this recipe.
2. If your onions are still in a standing liquid after you are finished caramelizing them, they should be drained. This needs to be done very carefully as the liquid and pot will be very hot.
3. A good quality, pure maple syrup can get a little pricey. But it is worth it! You can make several batches of this recipe with just one bottle, and the flavor is beyond compare.
4. You may love this so much that you need a double batch. This recipe can be easily doubled, especially if you are using a slow cooker to caramelize the onions.
5. I generally recommend using a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. However, if you are using an immersion blender, it is best to skip the liner. If the immersion blender blades get caught on the liner, you will have shredded liner in your jam!!.
6. In the market for a new slow cooker?? I love mine!