Ingredients
- 2 pounds (about 5 medium) apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup cane sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Place chopped apples and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium-low and cover. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Puree the apples with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth.
- Return the puree to the saucepan. Stir in sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Cook uncovered over low heat for 40–60 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and turns dark brown.
- Allow the apple butter to cool completely, then transfer to jars or airtight containers for storage.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best balance of flavor.
- For a different spice profile, try adding cardamom, allspice, or ginger.
- If using naturally sweet apples, reduce or omit the sugar.
- To test doneness, spoon a small amount onto a plate—if it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
- Great for spreading on toast, swirling into oatmeal, or using as a filling for pastries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment, Spread
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 55 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
