Fresh Apple Butter
A velvety, sweet-tart apple butter with warming cinnamon and cloves, perfect for spreading on toast or biscuits, ideal for cozy mornings and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Do not core, seed or peel apples. Cut into quarters.
- Cook apples in enough water to cover for 30 to 35 minutes or until tender.
- Put apples and liquid through a sieve or food mill to remove skins and seeds.
- Measure pulp and for each cup, mix in 1 cup sugar.
- Add cinnamon and ground cloves.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture is thick and smooth, approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Pour into hot, clean jars, seal, and refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the cooked apples before straining if you prefer a finer apple butter. If tart apples are unavailable, feel free to substitute with a mix of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the brightness of the final product. Be sure to stir frequently during the cooking process to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This fresh apple butter is delightful spread on toast or muffins, and it pairs beautifully with Lipton Oven Roasted Potatoes for a comforting meal. It's also a great topping for pancakes or waffles. Serve alongside a cheese platter for a sweet and savory combination, or use it as a filling in pastries for a delicious dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled apple butter in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the apple butter using proper canning techniques. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Apple Butter contains roughly 1287 calories, with 18g protein, 207g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples, but tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for the best flavor. Mixing sweet and tart apples can also create a balanced taste. Experiment with different apple types to find your favorite blend!
How do I know when the apple butter is done cooking?
The apple butter is done when it has thickened and reached a smooth consistency, typically after 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking. Look for a spreadable texture that holds its shape on a spoon. It should not be runny; if it is, continue cooking a bit longer while stirring frequently.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this apple butter recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you might add, like sweeteners or spices, are also vegan-friendly. Enjoy it guilt-free on your favorite vegan breads and pastries!
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).