What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade apple butter is a game-changer, with its rich, velvety texture and warm, cozy flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and the results taste like pure autumn in a jar.
- No fancy ingredients needed—just apples, sugar, and spices you likely already have.
- Slow-cooked to perfection, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
- Versatile and delicious, perfect on toast, pancakes, or even stirred into oatmeal.
Recipe
Apple butter is a delicious, concentrated spread made from apples, sugar, and spices. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, adding to oatmeal, or using as a topping for desserts. This homemade version is easy to make and fills your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Place the chopped apples in a slow cooker.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and dark brown.
- Remove the lid and stir in the vanilla extract. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
- Cook uncovered on low for an additional 1-2 hours to thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Let cool, then transfer to sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Notes:
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on the sweetness of your apples.
- For a smoother texture, pass the cooked mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before the final cooking step.
Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Sterilized jars
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-14 hours
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 4 cups
Nutrition
Apple butter is a delicious spread made from apples, sugar, and spices. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 tablespoon):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 36 |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Sodium | 1 mg |
| Total Carbs | 9.3 g |
| Sugars | 8.8 g |
| Protein | 0.1 g |
What To Serve With It
You’ll love spreading this apple butter on warm biscuits or toast—it’s a classic pairing that never disappoints. Try swirling it into oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet twist, or serve it alongside sharp cheeses for a savory contrast. Don’t forget to dollop it over pancakes or waffles; trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Bread and Pastry Pairings
Though apple butter shines on its own, it’s even better when paired with the right bread or pastry. I love spreading it thickly on warm, crusty sourdough or soft, fluffy dinner rolls—it’s heavenly. For breakfast, I can’t resist slathering it on flaky croissants or toasty bagels. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll dollop it on a scone or muffin for a sweet, tangy twist. Even simple crackers or toasted pita bread turn into a treat with a swipe of apple butter. It’s versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment—whatever you choose, the pairing is sure to feel cozy and indulgent.
Savory Dish Complements
Beyond dessert or breakfast, I’ve found apple butter can add a hint of sweetness and depth to savory dishes. Try spreading it on grilled pork chops or mixing a spoonful into barbecue sauce—it’s a game-changer. I love swirling it into roasted sweet potatoes or using it as a glaze for chicken thighs. Even a dollop on sharp cheddar cheese makes a simple snack feel fancy. Don’t be afraid to experiment; it pairs surprisingly well with tangy mustard or spicy sausage. The rich, spiced flavor balances salty, smoky, or savory notes, turning everyday meals into something special.
