Apple Butter
Apple butter is a delightful, spiced spread that captures the warm essence of autumn in every jar. This comforting recipe transforms simple, tart cooking apples into a rich, velvety concoction that perfectly balances sweet and spice. Ideal for slathering on warm toast, pancakes, or even as a topping for seasonal desserts, apple butter brings a touch of homemade goodness to any meal.
Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy breakfasts, apple butter is not just a delicious addition to your pantry; it also evokes memories of crisp apple-picking days and the sweet aroma of spices wafting through your home. With this recipe, you’ll create a wholesome treat that friends and family will rave about and request again and again.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 apples (cooking apples work best)
- 1 cup sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
A selection of fresh ingredients ready for preparation.
Directions
- Peel, core, and slice the apples.
- Place the apples in a large pot and add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and water.
- Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and have released their juices, about 30 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender or a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth.
- Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches a spreadable consistency, about 1-2 hours.
- Pour the apple butter into sterilized jars and let it cool before sealing.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: For a sweeter apple butter, you can substitute part of the sugar with maple syrup or honey. Use different spices such as ginger or cloves for varied flavor profiles.
- Optional variations: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a few tablespoons of bourbon for a unique twist.
- Storage or reheating tips: Store apple butter in a cool, dark place for up to a year if sealed properly. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 4 pints
- Difficulty level: Easy
Apple Butter
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6-8 apples 6 to 8 apples (cooking apples work best)
- 1 cup 1 cup sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup water
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel, core, and slice the apples.
- Place the apples in a large pot and add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and water.
Cooking
- Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and have released their juices, about 30 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender or a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth.
- Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches a spreadable consistency, about 1-2 hours.
Finishing
- Pour the apple butter into sterilized jars and let it cool before sealing.