Description
A homemade, stovetop apple butter made with fresh apples, warm spices, and maple syrup, simmered to perfection for a thick, smooth, and deeply flavorful spread. Ideal for toast, pancakes, and baked goods, this apple butter is easy to make and full of cozy fall flavors.
Ingredients
4 pounds apples (see note 1 for varietal suggestions)
1/4 cup pure maple syrup (see note 2)
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon grated or ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Core and cut the apples into 1- to 1 1/2-inch chunks. Transfer to a large bowl.
- Add maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to the apples. Stir to combine.
- Pour water into a large saucepan, then add the apple mixture. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the apples until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender (be cautious with hot liquids).
- Return the puree to the stovetop and simmer uncovered over medium-low heat until thickened and golden brown, 1–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Allow the apple butter to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy on toast, pancakes, or in baked goods!
Notes
- Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples work well. A mix of sweet and tart apples gives a balanced flavor.
- Use pure maple syrup for a rich flavor, or substitute with honey, agave, or your preferred sweetener.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, continue simmering until desired thickness is achieved.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
