Discover the magic of homemade apple butter

Apple butter, a beloved yet somewhat mysterious treat, will win children's and adults' hearts. This delightful spread enriches any meal with its unique flavor.

Apples, regarded as a national treasure, come in many varieties. Available year-round at affordable prices, they're most commonly celebrated in pies and cakes; however, I’d like to share a different use for them.

Beyond its delicious taste, apple butter offers a healthy alternative to traditional butter, containing less fat and fewer calories. It’s an excellent addition to the diet of those following plant-based nutrition.

While its sweetness might not complement ham sandwiches, apple butter pairs wonderfully with oatmeal, pancakes, and cheese platters. The flavor profile can be adjusted by adding specific spices. Ideal seasonings include cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, salt, or pepper, making them versatile.

Cinnamon is an essential ingredient in my recipe.

Ingredients:

• Approximately 6.6 pounds of slightly sour apples,
• 3.5 ounces of brown sugar,
• The juice of 1 lemon,
• 1 tablespoon of cinnamon,
• 3 crushed allspice berries,
• 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg,
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves.

How to prepare:

1. Start by thoroughly washing, peeling, and coring the apples, then cut them into smaller pieces to speed up cooking.
2. Toss the apples in lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance their flavor.
3. Cook the apple mixture over low heat for about an hour until it turns mushy.
4. Blend or sieve the cooked apples for a smooth consistency.
5. Season the apple blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Depending on the sweetness of the apples, add sugar if needed.
6. Continue cooking on low heat for another 4-4.5 hours until most of the water has evaporated, adjusting the time based on the apple variety.
7. Due to the caramelization process, the finished apple butter should be thick, buttery, and dark in color.
8. Transfer the apple butter to sterilized jars. Refrigeration is sufficient without pasteurization if you plan to consume it within two weeks.