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Homemade Apple Butter

Apple butter, despite its name, does not contain milk or dairy products. It is actually a highly concentrated form of applesauce, known for its creamy texture and deep brown color. The name "apple butter" comes from its smooth, spreadable consistency and flavor, which can liven up even the most basic dishes. You can spread it on toasted bread and pancakes or serve it with cake. 

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
3 hrs 15 mins
Total Time
4 hrs 5 mins
Servings: 15
Calories: 196 kcal
Course: Dessert , Condiments
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 6 lb. apples , peeled, uncored, chopped
  • 6 Cups apple cider
  • 1 cup light brown or white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 inch cinnamon stick
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon adjust to taste
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Use a peeler to gently remove the skin from the apples, and then, with a corer or a sharp knife, remove the cores. Make sure to discard any seeds.
  2. Place the chopped apples in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan and pour in the apple cider.
  3. Cover the saucepan with a lid and heat it over medium heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer until the apples become soft and pulpy, about 30 minutes.
  4. Once the apples are soft, use a hand blender to blend the cooked apple mixture until it reaches a smooth texture. Alternatively, you can use a food mill.
  5. Return the smooth apple mixture to the saucepan, and now add the sugar, lemon juice, spices (cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, ground cloves), and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure these ingredients are well incorporated.
  6. Place the saucepan back on the heat and simmer the mixture once again. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue simmering and stirring for about 2 hours.
  7. After the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool down completely. Once cooled, you can store it in the refrigerator for future use.
  8. Serve with waffles, scones, biscuits, muffins, yogurt, or cheeses.

Notes

  • How to Store & Freeze
  • To refrigerate apple butter, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. When you're ready to use it, you can use it straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature before serving.
  • Apple butter can be made up to 1 month in advance. To store it, transfer the apple butter to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and leave some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Frozen apple butter can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw the apple butter overnight in the refrigerator before use.
  • To refrigerate apple butter, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. When you're ready to use it, you can use it straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature before serving.
  • Apple butter can be made up to 1 month in advance. To store it, transfer the apple butter to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and leave some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Frozen apple butter can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw the apple butter overnight in the refrigerator before use.