Aunt Maude'S Apple Butter
A rich, spiced apple butter perfect for spreading on toast or adding to recipes, with warm cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves for a comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure cooked apple pulp.
- For each quart of apple pulp, add 3 cups of sugar, 1 heaping teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 heaping teaspoon of allspice, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of cloves, and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract.
- Bake in a slow oven at 325°F (160°C), stirring occasionally, or simmer slowly until thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smoother texture, consider blending the apple pulp before adding the spices and sugar. If you prefer less sugar, substitute with honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste. For a spicier flavor, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom. This recipe can be customized with different spices based on your preference, making it versatile for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Maude's Apple Butter pairs beautifully with Inexpensive Bread for a delightful breakfast or snack. Spread it on toast, pancakes, or waffles, or use it as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. It also makes a great addition to cheeseboards, complementing sharp cheeses and crackers. Enjoy it alongside Slow Cooked B.B.Q. Pork Or Beef for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apple butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning it in sterilized jars. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Maude'S Apple Butter contains roughly 375 calories, with 7g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% 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 store-bought apple sauce instead of cooked apple pulp?
While you can use store-bought apple sauce, it may alter the flavor and texture of the final product. Homemade apple pulp offers a fresher taste and a thicker consistency, enhancing the overall richness of the apple butter. If using apple sauce, reduce the sugar slightly, as it may already contain added sweetness.
How can I tell when the apple butter is thick enough?
When canning, ensure the jars are sterilized properly to prevent spoilage. Process in a water bath for 10-15 minutes after filling them with hot apple butter. This step helps create a vacuum seal that keeps the butter fresh for months.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. Enjoy this delicious apple butter on toast, as a dip, or in desserts without any animal-derived ingredients.
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).