Description
This easy homemade apple butter is a rich, smooth, and spiced spread that captures the essence of fall. Made from simple ingredients like apples, warm spices, and vanilla, it’s perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or biscuits. A comforting homemade treat that is naturally vegan and packed with cozy flavors.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 6 apples (peeled, cored, chopped)
- ¼ cup water
Sweeteners and Spices
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cook the Apples: Add the peeled, cored, and chopped apples along with ¼ cup of water into a pot. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft and tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Puree the Mixture: Once the apples are soft, mash them with a potato masher or blend in a food processor/blender until smooth to achieve the desired apple butter consistency.
- Add Sugars and Spices: Stir in the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into the smooth apple mixture. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Simmer to Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the apple butter simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop a thick, spreadable texture.
- Finish with Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract at the end of cooking to enhance the aroma and flavor. Allow the apple butter to cool before transferring to jars for storage.
Notes
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more balanced and rich flavor.
- Store the apple butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- For longer preservation, the apple butter can be frozen in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Spread / Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
