Rich Spiced Apple Butter
Enjoy the warm flavors of Rich Spiced Apple Butter, perfect for fall spreads and desserts.
Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours hours
Cooling Time: 1 hour hour
Total Time: 3 hours hours 30 minutes minutes
Course: Snacks & Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Keyword: apple butter, autumn preserves, cinnamon apple spread, fall recipes, homemade spread, spiced apple butter
Servings: 16 oz
Calories: 100kcal
large heavy-bottomed pot
Immersion blender
sterilized jars
For the Base
- 4-5 pounds apples Select a mix of sweet and tart varieties.
- 1 cup light brown sugar Adds caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Balances the richness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon The star spice.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves Adds depth of flavor.
For the Liquid
- 1 cup apple cider Enhances richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brightens flavor.
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1 stick whole cinnamon sticks Infuse flavor; remove before blending.
- 4 whole cloves Add for extra clove taste; fish out later.
- 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg Enhances spice profile.
- 1 pinch allspice Complements other spices.
Steps to Prepare
Wash apples thoroughly, then peel, core, and chop into 1-inch pieces.
In a large pot, combine chopped apples, both sugars, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, apple cider, and lemon juice. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until apples are soft.
Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-low. Stir frequently for 1-2 hours until thickened.
Remove any whole spices. Puree the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender.
Return the apple butter to the pot and cook on low for 30-60 minutes, stirring constantly.
Ladle into sterilized jars, leaving headspace. Allow to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with honey before sealing for added sweetness.
Serving: 2ounces | Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg