Few spreads capture the taste of fall quite like apple butter. With its deep caramelized flavor, silky texture, and warm spices, this old-fashioned favorite is perfect on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or even swirled into yogurt. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and your kitchen will smell amazing while it simmers. Whether you’re in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada, this delicious apple butter recipe is one you’ll love and come back to every autumn.
Ingredients (Makes about 4 cups)
Apples – 5 lbs (about 10 medium apples; sweet-tart varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best)
Apple cider (or water) – 1 cup
Brown sugar – 1 to 1 ½ cups (adjust to taste)
Granulated sugar – ½ cup
Ground cinnamon – 2 tsp
Ground cloves – ¼ tsp
Ground nutmeg – ½ tsp
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Wash, peel, core, and slice apples into chunks.
Step 2: Cook Down the Apples
Place apples in a slow cooker or large heavy pot.
Add cider (or water) and cook on low heat for 8–10 hours (slow cooker) or stovetop on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft.
Step 3: Puree the Mixture
Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender in batches) to puree the cooked apples until smooth.
Step 4: Add Sugar & Spices
Stir in sugars, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Cook for an additional 1–2 hours on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick, glossy, and spreadable.
Step 5: Store
Let apple butter cool. Transfer to sterilized jars and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
Apple Butter Hacks & Tips
Set and forget: A slow cooker is the easiest method—no need to stir constantly.
Make it chunky: Blend less if you prefer a rustic, textured spread.
Sugar swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of part of the sugar for a unique flavor.
Test for doneness: Scoop a spoonful onto a plate—if liquid doesn’t pool around the edges, it’s ready.
Canning option: You can water-bath can apple butter for shelf-stable storage up to a year.
Delicious Ways to Use Apple Butter
Spread on toast, biscuits, and muffins
Swirl into oatmeal or yogurt
Use as a cake filling or cupcake frosting base
Glaze for pork or chicken
Stir into pancake or waffle batter for extra flavor
Add to grilled cheese sandwiches for a sweet-savory twist
Conclusion
This delicious apple butter recipe you’ll love captures everything cozy about fall in a jar. With apples, spices, and a little patience, you can create a versatile spread that elevates both sweet and savory dishes. Plus, it makes a wonderful homemade gift during the holiday season.
So grab some apples and let them slowly transform into this rich, spiced treat—you’ll find yourself making it every year once you’ve tried it.