Homemade Apple Butter Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs (about 10-12 medium) apples (a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji works best)
- 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (you can adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup white sugar (optional, depending on how sweet you like it)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into chunks. You can use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Cook the apples:
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple chunks with the apple cider (or juice). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes until the apples are soft and tender.
- Puree the apples:
- Once the apples have softened, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the apples until smooth. If you prefer a chunky texture, pulse briefly.
- Add spices and sugars:
- Add the brown sugar, white sugar (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the apple puree. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the mixture:
- Lower the heat and simmer the apple mixture, uncovered, for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring frequently. It will thicken as it cooks. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for about 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. The apple butter should be thick and spreadable.
- Check the consistency:
- When it’s done, check the consistency by placing a spoonful on a plate. Run your finger through it—if it doesn’t run, it’s ready! If it’s too thin, continue simmering until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Jar the apple butter:
- Once it has thickened, transfer the apple butter into sterilized jars while it’s still hot. Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate. It should keep for 2-3 weeks in the fridge, or you can process the jars in a water bath for long-term storage (follow proper canning procedures if desired).
- Serve and enjoy:
- Serve your homemade apple butter on toast, pancakes, muffins, or use it in baked goods!
Enjoy your homemade apple butter—it’s perfect for fall or anytime you want that warm, comforting apple flavor!