Quick & Easy Homemade Apple Butter
This shortcut apple butter tastes like it simmered all day, but comes together in just 45 minutes! Thick, spiced, and perfect for fall baking or gifting.
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Servings: 2 cups
Calories: 45kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples about 2 lbs, cored and chopped
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup apple cider or water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine apples, brown sugar, cider, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring often, until apples are very soft.
- Purée with an immersion blender until smooth.
- Continue cooking 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened (it should mound on a spoon).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool before jarring.
Notes
- Thickness Test: Drag a spoon through the butter—if the path holds for 2 seconds, it’s done.
- Spice It Up: Add ¼ tsp each of nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom.
- Canning: Process jars in a water bath for 10 minutes to seal.
- Double Batch: Freeze half for holiday baking.
- No Cider? Substitute with apple juice or water + 1 tbsp maple syrup.
- Bonus hack: Spread on grilled cheese sandwiches for a sweet-savory twist!
Nutrition
Serving: 2Tbsp | Calories: 45kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 60mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g