A sweet and tangy spread made from simmered apples, sugar, and spices. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a filling for desserts.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider or juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, apple cider or juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 hours, or until the apples are completely softened and the mixture has thickened.
- Mash or puree: Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Mash the apples with a potato masher or puree them in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Cook further: Return the mashed or pureed apple mixture to the pot and simmer over low heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the desired consistency is reached. The apple butter should be thick and slightly sticky.
- Cool and store: Transfer the hot apple butter to a sterilized jar or container. Let it cool completely before sealing and storing in the refrigerator. Apple butter will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Enjoy!