Description
Apple butter is a classic, rich spread made from slow-cooked apples and warm spices that capture the essence of fall in every bite. Canning apple butter is the perfect way to preserve this delightful treat and enjoy it all year round. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of making and canning your very own homemade apple butter. Spread it on toast, muffins, or biscuits for a cozy touch to any meal.
Ingredients
6 lbs apples (Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup apple cider (optional for flavor depth)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Butter: Place the chopped apples in a large slow cooker. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and apple cider if using. Stir everything together and cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 10-12 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and dark brown.
- Blend the Apple Mixture: Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If the apple butter is too thin, continue cooking uncovered for 1-2 additional hours to thicken it up. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Prepare for Canning: Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep the jars warm until ready to fill.
- Fill and Process Jars: Ladle the hot apple butter into sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, apply the lids, and screw on the rings until fingertip-tight.
- Process in a Water Bath: Submerge the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, ensuring at least 1 inch of water covers the tops of the jars. Adjust for altitude if necessary.
- Cool and Store: After processing, remove the jars and let them cool completely. Check the seals and store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Notes
Apple Variety: Choose sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor. If you prefer a tart apple butter, use Granny Smith apples and adjust the sugar to your taste.
Consistency: To test the consistency of the apple butter, place a spoonful on a cold plate and run your finger through it. If it doesn’t run back together, it’s ready.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add additional spices like ginger or allspice to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 hours
- Category: Canning, Preserves, Fall Recipes, Breakfast, Condiments
- Method: Slow Cooker, Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes approximately 4-5 pint jars
- Calories: 40 kcal per tablespoon