Begin by placing the prepared apples into a slow cooker. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt, mixing thoroughly before pouring this mixture over the apples. Stir well to ensure even distribution.

Cover the slow cooker and set it to High for the first hour of cooking.

After the initial hour, reduce the heat to Low and allow the mixture to cook for 9 to 11 hours, stirring occasionally. The goal is to achieve a thickened and dark brown consistency.

Once the apple butter has reached the desired thickness, uncover the slow cooker and continue cooking on Low for an additional hour. For a smoother texture, stir the mixture with a whisk as desired.

Finally, spoon the finished apple butter into sterile containers, cover them, and store in the refrigerator or freezer for future use.