Introduction
Apple Butter Spread with Spices is one of those timeless recipes that fills your kitchen with the aroma of autumn. Slow-cooked apples are transformed into a luscious, velvety spread infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s thicker and richer than applesauce, with a caramelized sweetness and a comforting depth of flavor.
This spread is versatile — slather it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, spread it over pancakes, or use it as a filling in pastries. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients made extraordinary by patience and gentle cooking.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it captures the essence of fall in a jar. The slow simmering process not only deepens the flavor but also makes your home smell absolutely heavenly — a blend of apples, spice, and sweetness that feels like comfort itself. Unlike store-bought spreads, this homemade version allows you to control the sweetness and spice levels, tailoring it exactly to your preference.
It’s also a recipe that feels both nostalgic and practical. It connects to old-fashioned traditions of preserving seasonal fruits while being something you can enjoy daily — a small luxury on a slice of buttered toast or alongside a cheese platter.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Seasonal Comfort: A cozy way to enjoy apples in their peak season.
- Homemade Goodness: Fresher and healthier than any jar you can buy.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, desserts, and gifting.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully in jars and even freezes well.
This apple butter isn’t just food — it’s an experience of warmth, tradition, and flavor.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2–3 hours (slow simmer)
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 4 cups (depending on apple size)
- Calories: ~50 calories per tablespoon
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American, Traditional
- Course: Condiment, Spread, Preserve
Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples (a mix of sweet and tart, e.g., Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith)
- 1 cup apple cider (or water)
- 1 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Simple Cooking Directions
- Peel, core, and slice apples.
- Cook apples with cider until soft.
- Blend into a smooth puree.
- Simmer with sugar and spices until thick and spreadable.
- Cool and store in jars.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples into chunks.
- Initial Cooking: Place apples and apple cider into a large heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker. Simmer over medium heat until apples are very soft (about 30–40 minutes).
- Blend: Use an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
- Add Flavor: Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt. Adjust sweetness and spice as desired.
- Slow Simmer: Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thick and spreadable. The apple butter should mound on a spoon and not run off easily.
- Cool & Store: Let cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars.
How to Serve
- Spread on warm toast, biscuits, or muffins
- Swirl into oatmeal, yogurt, or pancake batter
- Use as a filling for cakes, crepes, or pastries
- Pair with cheese and crackers for a sweet-savory appetizer
Additional Recipe Tips
- Stir often while simmering to prevent sticking.
- For deeper flavor, let the apple butter cook longer — the color will darken and the flavor will intensify.
- Taste as you go — apples vary in sweetness, so adjust sugar accordingly.
Variations
- Sugar-Free: Use only naturally sweet apples and omit sugar.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom.
- Citrus Twist: Add zest of an orange or lemon for brightness.
- Crockpot Method: Cook apples and spices in a slow cooker on low for 8–10 hours, then puree.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in sealed jars for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months.
- Canning: If following proper canning procedures, jars can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 year.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Sterilized jars for storage
Conclusion
Apple Butter Spread with Spices is the perfect way to transform humble apples into a luxurious treat. With its rich, caramelized flavor and warm spice blend, it’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or gift it in jars, this recipe brings a little taste of autumn joy into everyday life.
Apple Butter Spread with Spices
Description
Apple Butter Spread with Spices is one of those timeless recipes that fills your kitchen with the aroma of autumn. Slow-cooked apples are transformed into a luscious, velvety spread infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare Apples : Peel, core, and slice apples into chunks.
-
Initial Cooking : Place apples and apple cider into a large heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker. Simmer over medium heat until apples are very soft (about 30–40 minutes).
-
Blend: Use an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
-
Add Flavor : Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt. Adjust sweetness and spice as desired.
-
Slow Simmer : Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thick and spreadable. The apple butter should mound on a spoon and not run off easily.
-
Cool & Store : Let cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars.
