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Homemade Apple Butter

A close-up of a glass jar filled with rich, dark homemade apple butter.
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A thick, caramelized apple spread spiced with cinnamon, perfect for toast or biscuits. This recipe concentrates apple flavors into a silky butter-like texture, filling your home with the scent of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 pounds apples (about 12–15 medium), such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp
  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Wash, core, and quarter the apples. You do not need to peel them.
  2. Place the apples in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the apple cider.
  3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the apples are very tender.
  4. Remove the apples from the pot with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl. Discard the cooking liquid.
  5. Mash the cooked apples with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth. For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender or food mill.
  6. Return the mashed apples to the pot. Stir in the granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
  7. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 2-4 hours, or until the apple butter is very thick and has a deep caramel color. It should be spreadable but not runny.
  8. To test for doneness, spoon a small amount onto a plate and let it cool. If it mounds up and doesn’t spread, it’s ready.
  9. Ladle the hot apple butter into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, apply lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude).

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use apple cider instead of water when cooking the apples.
  • You can adjust the spices to your preference.
  • Apple butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks if not canning.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/apple-butter-recipe-slow-cooker-fall-preserve/