Mom'S Apple Butter
Sweet and spiced apple butter with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for spreading on toast or biscuits, offering a rich, flavorful treat for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook apples with just enough water to keep from sticking. When done, rub through a sieve; add sugar, vinegar, and spices. Place in dishpan or large pan on lower rack in oven.
- Cook at 325°F until thick.
- Stir once or twice during cooking.
- When done (about 3 hours), place in clean, hot jelly jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the apples before cooking instead of using a sieve. You can adjust the spice levels to your taste; for a warmer flavor, add more cinnamon or even a pinch of nutmeg. If you prefer a less sweet apple butter, reduce the sugar by a cup or substitute with honey or maple syrup. Using a variety of apples can enhance the flavor complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Mom's Apple Butter is perfect spread on toast or English muffins for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with Shredded Wheat Biscuits Or Bread, and can also be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles. For a savory twist, serve it alongside cheese and crackers as an appetizer or use it to enhance the flavor of pork dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store your apple butter in sterilized, airtight jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portioned containers or freezer bags. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Apple Butter contains roughly 707 calories, with 4g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber.
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 apples?
While store-bought apple sauce can save time, it may alter the final flavor and texture of the apple butter. If you opt for it, reduce the sugar since most apple sauces are sweetened. Additionally, cook it down longer to achieve the desired thickness.
How long can I store homemade apple butter?
Homemade apple butter can be stored in sealed jars for up to one year in a cool, dark place if properly canned. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within two weeks for the best taste and quality.
What types of apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of sweet and tart apples makes the best apple butter. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji create a balanced flavor. Avoid using only very tart or very sweet apples to ensure a well-rounded taste.
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).