✨ Description
Apple butter is a smooth, spiced fruit spread made from slow-cooked apples. Despite the name, it contains no dairy—just deep, caramelized apple flavor with hints of cinnamon and cloves. Perfect on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or stirred into oatmeal!
Who Is This Recipe For?
This cozy recipe is ideal for:
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Fall lovers craving warm, spiced treats
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Home cooks looking to preserve apples
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Anyone seeking a natural, sweet alternative to jams and jellies
⭐ Why It’s Great
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No butter—just naturally creamy apples
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Made with simple ingredients
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Can be cooked in a pot or slow cooker
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Freezer-friendly and giftable
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Packed with flavor, perfect year-round
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large pot or slow cooker
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Peeler and knife
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Blender or immersion blender
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Stirring spoon
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Jars for storage
Ingredients
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6 lbs apples (Fuji, Gala, or McIntosh), peeled & sliced
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2 cups apple cider or water
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1–2 cups granulated sugar (to taste)
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½ cup brown sugar (optional, for depth)
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1½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground cloves
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¼ tsp salt
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Optional: ½ tsp nutmeg, 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
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Cook apples: Place apples and cider in a pot or slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours until soft.
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Blend: Use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to puree the apples.
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Add spices & sugar: Stir in sweeteners, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and optional spices. Cook uncovered on low for 1–2 more hours, stirring often until thick.
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Finish: Once thick and deep brown, stir in vanilla (if using).
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Store: Let cool. Store in jars—refrigerate up to 3 weeks, freeze for months, or water-bath can for shelf-stable storage.
Storage
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Fridge: 2–3 weeks
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Freezer: Up to 6 months in airtight containers
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Canned: Up to 12 months if properly sealed and sterilized
❓ FAQ
Is there any butter in apple butter?
Nope! It’s just apples and spices—the name refers to the texture.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely. Adjust to your taste or use natural sweeteners like maple syrup.
What apples work best?
Use sweet and soft varieties like Gala, Fuji, or McIntosh for best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This homemade apple butter is rich, velvety, and bursting with cozy flavor. Whether spread on toast or swirled into oatmeal, it’s a seasonal treat that’s perfect for gifting or savoring anytime.
