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The Best Apple Butter Needs 1 Slow Trick

Apple Butter

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Apple butter is a thick, sweet spread made from slow-cooked apples. It has a rich, concentrated flavor. You can use it on toast, biscuits, or as a filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds apples (like McIntosh or Gala), peeled, cored, chopped
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Combine apples and cider in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to low. Simmer until apples are soft, about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
  4. Return to low heat. Stir in sugars, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
  5. Cook uncovered, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and darkens, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  6. Test for doneness: spoon a small amount onto a cold plate. It should not run.
  7. Pour into sterilized jars. Seal and process in a water bath for 10 minutes if canning, or refrigerate.

Notes

  • You can use a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, then puree and cook uncovered for 2 more hours.
  • Adjust sweetness to your taste. Reduce sugar if apples are very sweet.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Nutrition