Apple Butter

Name: Apple Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 500 min
Yield: 24 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 6 apples (peeled, cored, and chopped); 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tbsp vanilla extract

500 min 24 servings Easy

All Recipes

Apple Butter

Smooth and sweet apple butter perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts.

Prep

20 min

Cook

480 min

Total

500 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Apple butter is a delightful spread made from apples, sugar, and spices, cooked until it reaches a smooth, buttery consistency. Unlike traditional butter, it contains no dairy, making it a versatile addition to a variety of dishes. Originating from colonial America, apple butter is a staple in many households, especially during the fall when apples are in abundance. Its rich and concentrated flavour makes it a perfect accompaniment to breakfast items, desserts, or even savoury meals.

Ingredients

Servings

Apple Butter

Instructions

Prepare the apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, even pieces.

Pro tip: Using a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji enhances the flavour.

Combine ingredients

Place apples in a slow cooker. Add sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Stir to coat the apples evenly.

Pro tip: Ensure the ingredients are well-mixed for even cooking.

Cook the apples

Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours. Stir occasionally until apples are reduced and dark brown.

Pro tip: Cooking on low allows the flavours to deepen and caramelize.

Blend the mixture

Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.

Pro tip: A blender can be used if an immersion blender is unavailable.

Add vanilla

Stir in vanilla extract and cook for another 30 minutes uncovered on low.

Pro tip: Vanilla adds a rich aroma and enhances the sweetness.

Store the apple butter

Transfer the apple butter to sterilized jars and let it cool. Seal tightly.

Pro tip: Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Choose a mix of apple varieties for a balanced flavour.</li><li>Core and slice apples evenly for consistent cooking.</li><li>Use a slow cooker for a deeper, caramelized taste.</li><li>Store in sterilized jars for longer shelf life.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve apple butter spread on warm toast, muffins, or pancakes. It also pairs beautifully with cheese platters or as a glaze for meats. To make ahead, store apple butter in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage. This makes it a convenient and delicious addition to your pantry.