Homemade Spiced Apple Butter

Ingredients

• 5 lbs (2.3 kg) apples, peeled, cored, and chopped 5 lbs (2.3 kg) apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 60 kcal / 251 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 14g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.06g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, sugar, apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. 2.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and the mixture has thickened.
3. 3.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. 4.
   Use an immersion blender or a food processor to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. 5.
   Return the pot to low heat and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apple butter reaches a spreadable consistency.
6. 6.
   Remove from heat and let it cool completely before transferring to sterilized jars.
7. 7.
   Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or preserve using proper canning techniques for long-term storage.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a balanced flavor in the apple butter. Make sure to remove the cores and seeds before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoother texture, pass the cooked apple mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before blending.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference and the sweetness of the apples.
• Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice to customize the flavor profile of your apple butter.
• Serve the apple butter alongside a cheese platter for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
• Use small mason jars to gift your homemade apple butter to friends and family during the holiday season.

Serving advice

Spread this spiced apple butter on warm toast, bagels, or English muffins for a delicious breakfast treat. It also pairs well with pancakes, waffles, or as a filling for pastries like turnovers or thumbprint cookies.

Presentation advice

Transfer the apple butter into small glass jars and tie a rustic twine around the lid for a charming homemade touch. Serve it in a small dish with a decorative spoon for an elegant presentation.