Mel'S Apple Butter
Sweet and spiced apple butter with warm cinnamon and all-spice flavors, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting during the fall season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peeled, cored, and sliced apples with water in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook for 25 minutes or until apples are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mash the cooked apples and stir in brown sugar, powdered pectin, cinnamon, all-spice, and nutmeg.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour the hot apple butter into pint jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Seal the jars and process in boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother apple butter, blend the mashed mixture before cooking it further. You can substitute half of the apples with pears for a unique flavor or use different spices like ginger for a twist. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar to 2 cups and add a bit of honey instead. Ensure to use ripe apples for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
Spread this delicious apple butter on toast or biscuits for breakfast, or serve alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful snack. It also makes a great topping for pancakes or waffles. For a festive touch, offer it with Cranberry Salad, Great Served At Thanksgiving And Christmas, to complement your holiday meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store the apple butter in a cool, dark place for up to a year if sealed properly. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until desired temperature is reached, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mel'S Apple Butter contains roughly 4191 calories, with 39g protein, 527g carbohydrates, and 233g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (409% of the Daily Value), iron (122% of the Daily Value), and calcium (120% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor in your apple butter.
How do I know when the apple butter is done cooking?
The apple butter is done when it has thickened to your desired consistency and holds a spoon shape without running off. A good test is to place a small amount on a cold plate; if it holds its shape after cooling, it's ready.
What types of apples work best for apple butter?
A mix of sweet and tart apples works best for apple butter. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji create a balanced flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite blend!
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).