Easy Homemade Apple Butter Recipe

The smell of apples simmering on the stove can evoke memories of cozy autumn days and warm family gatherings. Imagine that rich aroma wafting through your home as you create your own homemade apple butter delight. It’s like a hug in a jar that makes everything better.

Now picture this: You’ve got a fresh loaf of bread, warm from the oven, and a jar of your own homemade apple butter delight waiting to be slathered on top. The moment that creamy spread meets the fluffy bread is pure magic that will have you dreaming about breakfast all night long.

Every time I whip up this recipe, my kids dive into jars like they’re treasure chests filled with gold. Their delighted faces when they taste it are priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith for depth of flavor.
• Sugar: Adjust the amount based on your taste; brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note.
• Cinnamon: This classic spice enhances the flavor; don’t skimp on it!
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings warmth and complexity to your apple butter.
• Cloves: These add an aromatic kick; use sparingly as they can dominate other flavors.
• Salt: A small pinch balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the flavor and helps preserve color.
• Water: Just enough to help soften those apples while cooking down.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Apples: Start by washing your apples thoroughly. Core and chop them into small pieces; no need to peel unless you absolutely want to change their texture.

Add Ingredients to Pot: Toss your chopped apples into a large saucepan along with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, lemon juice, and water. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.

Cook Until Soft: Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the apples are incredibly soft and fragrant.

Purée the Mixture: Use an immersion blender for smoothness or transfer batches to a blender carefully. Blend until you achieve a silky consistency that makes you swoon.

Cook Down Further: Return the puréed mixture back to the pot over low heat. Let it cook down for another 30-45 minutes until thickened; stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Cool & Jar: Once it’s thick enough (think spreadable), remove from heat. Allow it to cool slightly before spooning into sterilized jars for storage or gifting.

Now you’re ready! Your homemade apple butter delight is perfect for spreading on toast or using in baked goods!

Enjoy every spoonful of joy you’ve created while basking in those delicious aromas lingering in your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by peeling and chopping apples, then cook them down with spices and sugar until they are soft and fragrant. Blend until smooth for the best texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. You can even swap some apples for pears to create a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your homemade apple butter delight in sterilized jars in the fridge. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks, or you can freeze it for longer enjoyment.

Sometimes I find myself spreading this homemade apple butter delight on pancakes during Sunday brunch, much to my family’s delight. It’s a simple joy that brings everyone together.

FAQ

Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?

Yes, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best for a rich flavor.

How long does homemade apple butter last?

It lasts about two weeks in the fridge and up to six months in the freezer.

Can I add other fruits to my apple butter delight?

Absolutely! Pears or even cranberries can add delightful twists to your apple butter.

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Homemade Apple Butter Delight

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• Author: Rachel Simmons
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings (1 tablespoon each) 1x

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Description

Savor the essence of autumn with this easy homemade apple butter delight, perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or sharing with loved ones.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups apples (mixed Fuji and Granny Smith)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup water

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Instructions

1. Wash, core, and chop the apples into small pieces, leaving the skins on for added texture.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, lemon juice, and water. Stir to mix well.
3. Heat over medium heat until simmering; cook for about 30 minutes or until the apples are soft and fragrant.
4. Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth or transfer in batches to a regular blender.
5. Return the blended apple mixture to the pot over low heat and cook for another 30-45 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Allow to cool slightly before spooning into sterilized jars for storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Spread
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (15g)
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract or replace some apples with pears for a unique twist. Store in sterilized jars; it keeps fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to six months.