Homemade Apple Butter

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Homemade Apple Butter.

1. Step 1

   To create a delightful homemade apple butter, start by gathering your ingredients.

2. Step 2

   In a large stockpot, combine quartered apples with apple juice.

3. Step 3

   Bring this mixture to a lively boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the apples become soft and mushy.

4. Step 4

   Once they’re ready, it’s time to transform them into a smooth puree.

5. Step 5

   Use a food mill to process the apples, discarding any cores and peels that remain.

6. Step 6

   Transfer the silky apple puree into a slow cooker, where the magic continues.

7. Step 7

   Set your slow cooker to High and leave the lid off.

8. Step 8

   This allows the moisture to escape, reducing the volume of the puree by about half.

9. Step 9

   Depending on your kitchen’s warmth, this can take anywhere from overnight to a full 24 hours.

10. Step 10

    Once the puree has thickened, stir in sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, infusing your apple butter with warm, comforting flavors.

11. Step 11

    Keep cooking on High until the mixture thickens to a luscious consistency, mounding beautifully on a chilled plate without any watery separation around the edges.

12. Step 12

    This step can take an additional 2 to 6 hours, so be patient; the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be worth it! While your apple butter is bubbling away, it’s time to prepare your canning jars.

13. Step 13

    Sterilize them by boiling in water for at least 5 minutes.

14. Step 14

    Once they’re ready, carefully pack the hot apple butter into the jars, filling them to about 1/4 inch from the top.

15. Step 15

    To ensure a perfect seal, use a knife or thin spatula to remove any air bubbles, and wipe the rims of the jars with a damp paper towel.

16. Step 16

    Place the lids on top and screw on the rings snugly.

17. Step 17

    Next, prepare a large stockpot by placing a rack at the bottom and filling it halfway with water.

18. Step 18

    Bring the water to a boil, then gently lower the filled jars into the pot, ensuring there’s a 2-inch space between each jar.

19. Step 19

    If needed, add more boiling water to keep the level at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars.

20. Step 20

    Cover the pot and process the jars for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

21. Step 21

    Once the processing time is up, carefully remove the jars from the stockpot and place them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, making sure they’re spaced a few inches apart to cool.

22. Step 22

    After they’ve cooled, press the center of each lid to check the seal; it should remain firm and not pop up or down.

23. Step 23

    Finally, store your sealed jars in a cool, dark place, and get ready to enjoy the rich, homemade apple butter that’s perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite recipes.

24. Step 24

    Happy canning!.