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Apple Butter

Apple Butter
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This homemade apple butter recipe transforms simple apples into a rich, spreadable treat infused with warm spices and natural sweetness. Slow-cooked to perfection, it develops deep, bold flavors ideal for spreading on toast, biscuits, or incorporating into baking. Easy to make with common pantry ingredients, this versatile condiment boasts a long shelf life and a naturally balanced sweetness without artificial additives.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 6 lbs sweet-tart apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or McIntosh), washed, peeled, cored, and chopped

Sugars

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar

Spices

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Apples: Start by washing, peeling, coring, and chopping your apples into roughly equal-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and break down properly during the slow simmering process.
  2. Combine Ingredients in a Slow Cooker or Pot: Place the chopped apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, spices (cinnamon, cloves, allspice), apple cider vinegar, and water into your slow cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot. Stir everything together to mix the flavors before heating.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours in a slow cooker, or simmer gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. The apples will soften, and the mixture will begin to thicken as the natural sugars caramelize and flavors meld.
  4. Puree the Mixture: Once the apples are tender and the mix looks thick, use an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender to puree until smooth and spreadable. If you prefer a chunkier apple butter, blend only part of the mixture.
  5. Final Simmer to Desired Consistency: Return the pureed apple butter to heat and simmer uncovered to reduce further if needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve a thick, jam-like consistency that spreads easily.
  6. Store Your Apple Butter: Once cooled, transfer the apple butter to sterilized jars or airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for short-term use or process in a water bath canner for long-term shelf stability.

Notes

  • Choose the Right Apples: Combining sweet and tart apples creates depth in flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Keep Stirring: Regular stirring on the stovetop prevents burning and helps develop even texture.
  • Monitor Consistency: Remove from heat when it’s thickened but still smooth and spreadable—it thickens more as it cools.
  • Use a Slow Cooker: This method is foolproof for low and slow cooking to avoid scorching and develop rich flavor.
  • Quality Spices: Fresh spices pack more punch, so consider grinding whole cloves and cinnamon sticks for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple butter, homemade apple butter, slow cooker apple butter, fall recipes, breakfast spread, vegan apple butter, gluten free spread

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/apple-butter/