Spiced Apple Butter Spread (Printable Version)
Smooth, warmly spiced apple spread with a rich, slow-cooked flavor perfect for toast or pancakes.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fruit
01 - 3 lbs apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
→ Sweeteners
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
→ Liquids
04 - 1/2 cup apple cider or water
→ Spices
05 - 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
07 - 1/4 tsp ground allspice
08 - 1/4 tsp ground cloves
09 - 1/4 tsp salt
→ Acid
10 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
# Directions:
01 - Place apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, apple cider or water, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt into a large heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to coat apples evenly.
02 - Cover and cook on low heat or low slow cooker setting for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft and aromatic.
03 - Remove lid and continue cooking for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens and deepens in color.
04 - Remove from heat and purée the mixture with an immersion blender or process in batches in a blender until completely smooth.
05 - Stir in lemon juice, then taste and adjust sweetness or spices as preferred.
06 - Allow to cool, then transfer to sterilized jars. Refrigerate up to three weeks or process in a water bath canner for shelf stability.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This spread feels like a secret gift you can share on toast or pancakes, adding cozy warmth to any bite
- The blend of spices and the smooth texture quickly made it a staple in my breakfast routine
02 -
- Patience is key: the slow cooking really brings out deep, layered flavors you can't rush
- Blending thoroughly makes all the difference—no one likes chunky apple butter when you want silky smoothness
03 -
- Use mixed apple varieties for a balanced sweetness and acidity that elevates the flavor
- Strain the butter through a fine mesh for the smoothest texture possible