Amish Apple Butter
A velvety, spiced apple butter bursting with tart apples, sweet cider, cinnamon, and cloves—ideal for spreading on toast or stirring into oatmeal for a comforting breakfast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quarter and core the apples.
- Cook apples in sweet cider until tender, then force through a sieve to separate pulp.
- Cook the apple pulp until thick, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Cool for about 30 minutes, then add sugar, cinnamon, and cloves; cook on low heat for about 1 hour.
- Put the mixture into jars, leaving 1/2-inch from the top, seal, and process in a large kettle with a rack and boiling water for about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother apple butter, consider using a food mill instead of a sieve after cooking the apples. If tart apples aren't available, you can substitute with a mix of sweet and tart varieties for balance. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting spices to your liking, especially if serving with dishes like Red Cinnamon Cucumbers.
Serving Suggestions
Amish apple butter is delightful spread on warm biscuits, toast, or pancakes. It also pairs beautifully with savory dishes, such as pork or chicken, adding a sweet contrast. For a creative twist, try using it in sandwiches with cream cheese or alongside cheeses on a charcuterie board. It can also complement desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of apple butter in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks. To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amish Apple Butter contains roughly 269 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After cooking the apples in cider, transfer the pulp to the slow cooker and stir in the sugar and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
What types of apples are best for apple butter?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Jonathan are ideal for apple butter, as they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. However, you can also mix in some sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added complexity.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to suit your taste, but keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also helps preserve the apple butter. If using less sugar, consider adding a bit of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).