Here’s a simple and delicious Apple Butter recipe, perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or even using in baked goods! 🍏🍞
Apple Butter
Servings: 4-5 cups | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 2-3 hours | Total Time: 3-4 hours
Ingredients:
- 6-8 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart apples like Gala, Fuji, and Granny Smith work well)
- 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples 🍏: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on, but peeling them will give you a smoother consistency.
- Cook the Apples 🍳: In a large pot, combine the chopped apples and apple cider (or juice). Cover and cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and mushy.
- Puree the Apples 🥄: Once the apples are soft, use an immersion blender or transfer the apples in batches to a blender/food processor to puree the apples until smooth.
- Add Spices & Sweetener 🍯: Return the apple puree to the pot and stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Apple Butter 🍏🔥: Continue to cook the apple butter over low heat, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes to prevent it from sticking. The mixture will thicken as it cooks, and the flavors will deepen. You can add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
- Blend (Optional) 🥄: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the apple butter again with an immersion blender.
- Store 🏠: Once the apple butter is thick and smooth, let it cool, then transfer it to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks, or can it for longer shelf life.
Tips & Variations:
- Spicy Apple Butter 🌶️: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Make It Sweeter 🍯: Increase the amount of sugar or add maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option 🕒: For a more hands-off method, cook the apples in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add a Twist 🍎: Experiment with adding other fruits like pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Butter spread on your favorite baked goods, or even as a gift in a jar!
