Introduction
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade apple butter bliss! This smooth and spiced delight is perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over pancakes, or just sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar. Here’s how to whip up a batch of this fall favorite right at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 6 pounds of apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 12 medium apples)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 hours
- Total Time: 10-12 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 5 cups
Start by placing your apple slices into a large slow cooker. It’s time for these apples to cozy up for a long, sweet simmer. Add sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt to the mix. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the apples are coated in all that sweet and spicy goodness. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 10-12 hours. Let the magic happen overnight or while you go about your day.
Once the apples have turned soft and a dark brown shade, it’s time for a power blend! Use an immersion blender to achieve that smooth, buttery perfection. Stir in the vanilla extract for a delightful finishing touch.
Grab some jars and fill them up with your apple butter. If you’re into canning, process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal the deal! Now, enjoy your homemade apple butter on everything!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by placing your apple slices into a large slow cooker. It’s time for these apples to cozy up for a long, sweet simmer.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Add sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt to the mix. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the apples are coated in all that sweet and spicy goodness.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 10-12 hours. Let the magic happen overnight or while you go about your day.
Step 4: Blend the Mixture
Once the apples have turned soft and a dark brown shade, it’s time for a power blend! Use an immersion blender to achieve that smooth, buttery perfection.
Step 5: Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract for a delightful finishing touch.
Step 6: Jarring the Apple Butter
Grab some jars and fill them up with your apple butter. If you’re into canning, process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal the deal!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your homemade apple butter on toast, pancakes, or simply straight from the jar.
Storage Tips
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a few weeks.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is approximately 40 kcal, 11g carbohydrates, 10g sugars, and 2% DV of Vitamin C.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Using a slow cooker is essential for making apple butter. This method allows the apples to slowly break down, releasing their natural juices and intensifying the flavors over several hours.
Blending
An immersion blender is recommended for achieving a smooth consistency. Blend the mixture until it reaches a velvety texture, ensuring all apple pieces are thoroughly combined.
Canning
If you wish to preserve your apple butter, using a boiling water bath canning method is necessary. This helps seal the jars and extend the shelf life of your homemade treat.
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, a mix of sweet and tart apples can enhance the flavor profile of your apple butter. Popular choices include Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
How long does homemade apple butter last?
When properly canned, homemade apple butter can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few weeks.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the apple butter?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar to your taste, keeping in mind that the sweetness of the apples will also play a significant role.
What can I use apple butter for?
Apple butter is versatile! It’s delicious spread on toast, pancakes, or waffles, and can also be used as a filling for pastries, or even as an ingredient in baking recipes.
Can I freeze apple butter?
Yes, you can freeze apple butter. Store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will last about 6 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
