The art of making Apple Butter lies in its simplicity and the profound flavors it brings to the table, capturing the essence of autumn with every batch. This recipe, Autumn Harvest Apple Butter, is a celebration of the season’s bounty, combining the natural sweetness of apples with a symphony of spices that warm you from the inside out. The slow cooking process transforms the ingredients into a rich, caramelized spread that’s versatile and utterly irresistible, making it a staple in any pantry.
Not only is apple butter a delightful addition to your morning toast or yogurt, but it also serves as a heartwarming gift that embodies the care and warmth of homemade cooking. Its thick, smooth texture and deep, concentrated apple flavor make it a favorite for spreading, baking, or even as a condiment. This recipe invites you to embrace the joy of slow cooking and the satisfaction of preserving the flavors of the season, offering a taste of fall that you can enjoy year-round.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine apples and apple cider. Cook over medium heat until apples are soft, about 20-25 minutes.
- Puree the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender until smooth.
- Return the pureed apples to the pot. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Simmer on low heat, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes deep brown in color, about 2-3 hours.
- Cool the apple butter completely. Transfer to sterilized jars and refrigerate.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: 100 kcal per serving | Servings: Makes about 4 cups